Analysis & Reports
AI-assisted analysis of military-related information from public sources
US Army lets soldiers flaunt their drone skills in first-ever competition
The U.S. Army held its first annual Best Drone Warfighter Competition in Huntsville, Alabama, showcasing drone warfare skills among over 800 attendees. Soldiers competed in various lanes, including drone racing and innovation, to develop effective drone technology. The event aims to enhance training and operational capabilities in unmanned warfare, with future iterations potentially incorporating drone swarm tactics.
China’s nuclear submarine production rate surpasses that of US: Report
China has launched 10 nuclear-powered submarines, surpassing the US's production of 7 submarines from 2021 to 2025. The submarines include the Type 094 and Type 093B, with production facilitated by an expansion at the Bohai Shipbuilding Heavy Industry Co shipyard. Despite the increase in numbers, Chinese submarines are considered noisier, which may limit their operational capabilities in contested waters.
Not So Fast, F-22 and F-35: China’s J-35 Stealth Fighter Summed Up in 2 Words
China is mass-producing the J-35 stealth fighter to achieve regional air dominance and support its A2/AD strategy in the Western Pacific. The People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) has begun service with the J-35A variant, while the naval version is optimized for the Type 003 Fujian aircraft carrier. Production targets aim for 300 units annually by 2030, enhancing China's military capabilities against high-value targets.
Iran Could ‘Register a Hit’ on a U.S. Air Force B-2 Spirit Stealth Bomber
Iran's air defense network faces significant challenges in reliably detecting and engaging the B-2 Spirit stealth bomber. The B-2's advanced stealth technology, supported by electronic warfare and cyber operations, complicates Iran's ability to target it effectively. While there is a theoretical possibility of a hit under specific conditions, the overall capability of Iran's air defenses remains inadequate against the B-2's operational profile.
The Medal of Honor recipient who became a ‘One-Man Regiment of Iwo Jima’
On February 24, 1945, approximately 60,000 U.S. service members assaulted fortified positions on Iwo Jima. Pvt. Wilson Watson of the 2nd Battalion, 9th Marines, distinguished himself by killing 60 Japanese soldiers and enabling his platoon to advance. He was later awarded the Medal of Honor for his bravery during the battle.
The American Military Buildup in the Gulf: An Analysis of the Largest Military Reinforcement Since the Invasion of Iraq and Its Regional Implications
The U.S. military is significantly increasing its presence in the Gulf region, deploying multiple fighter aircraft and naval assets in February 2026. This includes 6 F-22 Raptors and 18 F-35s, alongside aircraft carriers USS Abraham Lincoln and USS Gerald R. Ford. The buildup is part of preparations for potential confrontations with Iran, amid ongoing diplomatic tensions regarding nuclear agreements.
Ahmed Al-RashidThu Feb 19 2026Loading...US-led artillery drill combines NATO nations’ firepower for mass effect
NATO artillery units conducted a multi-national drill in Milan from January 26 to February 13, involving 23 nations to validate artillery interoperability. The exercise simulated combat scenarios similar to those in Ukraine, with participants expected to conduct 1,500 strikes and intercept up to 1,200 aerial threats daily. The ASCA software was utilized to enhance connectivity and coordination among the units.
US-led artillery drill combines NATO nations’ firepower for mass effect
NATO artillery units conducted a multi-national drill in Milan from January 26 to February 13, involving 23 nations to validate artillery interoperability. The exercise simulated combat scenarios similar to those in Ukraine, with participants expected to conduct 1,500 strikes and intercept up to 1,200 aerial threats daily. The ASCA software was utilized to enhance connectivity and coordination among different national artillery systems.
MOSOLF Presents Drone Defense at ENFORCE TAC 2026
MOSOLF Group presents new protection solutions for countering drones at the ENFORCE TAC 2026 trade fair in Nuremberg from February 23 to 25, 2026. The company showcases the DroneHammer system, designed to disable small drones using optical detection and a CO₂-based mechanism. This initiative reflects MOSOLF's response to emerging threats in internal security and defense.
US Rebalances Indo-Pacific Deterrence Amid Heightened China Competition
The U.S. Army has significantly increased its rotational presence in the Philippines as of mid-February 2026, establishing a persistent ground force capability. This expansion is part of a broader strategy to enhance deterrence against China, with the Philippines serving as a key location for military exercises and rapid response capabilities. Concurrently, U.S. Senators are advocating for a Quadrilateral Security Dialogue summit to strengthen alliances before a critical meeting between President Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping.
Marcus ChenThu Feb 19 2026Loading...Strategic Realignment: NATO's European Shift, Russia's Slowing Offensive, and the Iran-Israel Powder Keg
NATO commenced its Steadfast Dart 2026 military exercise in Central Europe on February 5, 2026, amid a backdrop of declining Russian offensive momentum in Ukraine. The U.S. is deploying additional military assets to the Middle East in response to rising tensions with Iran, while Ukraine continues its long-range strike campaign against Russian targets. Concurrently, Iranian officials have issued stark warnings regarding potential U.S. military actions.
Alexandra ReevesThu Feb 19 2026Loading...Cross Kauwa in flames — 8 Nigerian soldiers killed in the largest ISWAP offensive since Lake Chad
ISWAP launched a coordinated attack on the military base in Cross Kauwa, Nigeria, on February 17, 2023, killing eight soldiers and wounding 23 others. The assault involved approximately 70 fighters and resulted in the destruction of eleven armored vehicles. This operation marks a significant escalation in ISWAP's activities in the region, highlighting their strategic intent to undermine Nigerian military positions.
Marie DuboisThu Feb 19 2026Loading...
The JNIM Strangles Central Mali — Three Offensives in Ten Days Target the War Economy
JNIM conducted three major operations in central Mali between January 29 and February 7, 2026, targeting economic infrastructure and local defense networks. The group ambushed a fuel convoy in Kayes, attacked Dozo militiamen in Kendié, and the Malian Army responded with airstrikes in Ségou, killing 35 militants. These actions indicate a coordinated effort to destabilize the region and disrupt supply lines.
Marie DuboisThu Feb 19 2026Loading...The JNIM Strangles Central Mali — Three Offensives in Ten Days Target the War Economy
Jama'at Nasr al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM) conducted three major operations in Mali between January 29 and February 7, 2026, targeting economic infrastructure and local defense networks. An ambush on a fuel convoy near Kayes resulted in at least 15 deaths, while an attack on Dozo militiamen in Kendié killed five. The Malian army responded with airstrikes, killing 35 militants, but remains on the defensive as JNIM expands its operational reach.
Marie DuboisThu Feb 19 2026Loading...Ukraine's Energy Infrastructure Campaign: Striking Russia Where It Hurts Most
Ukrainian forces conducted airstrikes on the Ilsky Oil Refinery in Krasnodar Krai on February 16-17, 2026, targeting a key facility for Russian military operations. This attack is part of a broader campaign to undermine Russia's energy export infrastructure, aiming to create economic pressure and force a revision of Moscow's demands in negotiations. Ukraine's long-range strike capabilities have evolved, enabling these operations deep within Russian territory.
Li MinghuiThu Feb 19 2026Loading...Russia's February Gains: 200 Square Kilometers and the Illusion of Momentum
Russian forces seized 200 square kilometers of Ukrainian territory and 12 settlements in Donetsk Oblast in February 2026, but at a high cost, with the 127th Motorized Rifle Regiment reportedly operating at 40% strength. Ukrainian forces counterattacked in Zaporizhia Oblast, reclaiming over 200 square kilometers. The operational reality indicates that while Russia can gain territory, it struggles to maintain combat power and achieve strategic objectives.
Dmitri VolkovThu Feb 19 2026Loading...BAE Systems tests ATLAS uncrewed fighting vehicle
BAE Systems successfully conducted trials of the ATLAS uncrewed ground vehicle in Australia, demonstrating its combat capabilities and autonomy levels. The vehicle is designed to support main battle tanks and reconnaissance operations, featuring modular architecture for various mission roles. The trials included testing the VANTAGE turret, enhancing automated targeting and engagement processes.
Starlink Shutdown: The Tactical Turning Point That Shifted Ukraine's Battlefield Momentum
Elon Musk's decision to cut off Russian forces' access to Starlink on February 5, 2026, led to significant operational challenges for the Russian Army, resulting in Ukrainian forces reclaiming over 200 square kilometers of territory. The communication breakdown severely impacted Russian military coordination, with reports of scrambling for alternative satellite systems. Ukrainian counterattacks advanced rapidly, exploiting the disruption in Russian command and control capabilities.
Marcus ChenThu Feb 19 2026Loading...U.S. Air Guard runs VR training for base defense personnel
Airmen from the 102nd Security Forces Squadron conducted use-of-force training using a virtual reality system at Otis Air National Guard Base, Massachusetts, on February 8, 2026. The training utilized the Street Smarts Virtual Reality system to simulate real-world security scenarios, enhancing decision-making and readiness. This exercise is part of an ongoing program aimed at modernizing training methods for military personnel.
Iran and Russia Hold Joint Naval Exercises
Iran and Russia commenced a joint naval exercise on February 19, involving the Iranian military, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, and Russian Navy special forces. The exercise included a drill focused on the rescue of hijacked vessels.
