Analysis & Reports
AI-assisted analysis of military-related information from public sources
Mediocre MiG: Russia’s MiG-35 ‘Zombie’ Fighter Is Now Circling the Drain and Won’t Ever Beat the F-22 or F-35
The MiG-35 Fulcrum-F program is struggling, with fewer than 10 aircraft in active service as of February 20, 2026. The Russian Air Force has not prioritized the aircraft, and production is hindered by sanctions and supply chain issues. The MiG-35's international sales have been poor, and its lack of stealth capabilities limits its effectiveness in combat.
Why Russia Is Forced to Hide the Su-57 Felon Stealth Fighter
Russia's United Aircraft Corporation delivered upgraded Su-57 Felon stealth fighters to the Aerospace Forces, enhancing their capabilities. Approximately 30 to 42 units are active, with some stationed at Dzyomgi air base to protect against drone attacks. The Su-57 can control the S-70 Okhotnik-B drone and is intended to be a key component of Russia's air power, despite production challenges and limited deployment.
Ukraine Has 80 ‘New’ M1A1 Abrams ‘Frankenstein’ Tanks and America Isn’t Happy
Ukrainian forces are actively employing 80 modified M1A1 Abrams tanks in combat against Russian troops as of February 2026. These tanks have been upgraded with reactive armor and anti-drone measures to improve their effectiveness in high-intensity areas like Pokrovsk. Despite initial challenges in combat performance, the modifications have significantly enhanced crew survivability and operational capabilities.
The Evolution of the Russian Counter-Drone Doctrine: From Defensive Measures to Technological Export
On February 17, 2026, Russian air defense systems destroyed over 150 Ukrainian drones in a single night, with a total of approximately 300 UAVs intercepted within 24 hours. The attacks focused on strategic sites in the Black Sea, Azov Sea, Crimea, and Krasnodar Krai. Concurrently, Russia presented new air defense technologies at the World Defense Show 2026, indicating a shift towards enhanced counter-drone capabilities.
Dmitri VolkovFri Feb 20 2026Loading...Experts worry about nuclear quid pro quo in Russia-North Korea alliance against Ukraine
North Korea is actively supporting Russia in the Ukraine conflict, suffering 6,000 casualties while supplying artillery shells and missiles. In exchange, Russia may provide North Korea with nuclear submarine expertise, marking a significant military collaboration between the two nations. This relationship reflects a growing military alliance as both countries seek to enhance their capabilities amid ongoing tensions.
Belarus launches rapid reserve mobilization
Belarus has initiated a rapid reserve mobilization, with reports of sudden call-ups for military duty in Grodno, Slonim, and Baranki. Men are receiving summonses with minimal notice, often requiring immediate reporting to military units. This mobilization is characterized by its speed and lack of typical deferments, raising concerns about its implications near NATO borders.
The Russian Navy Will Soon Have No Aircraft Carriers
The Russian Navy will retire the Admiral Kuznetsov aircraft carrier by late 2025 due to ongoing mechanical failures and a lack of modernization funds. This decision leaves Russia as the only permanent UN Security Council member without an active carrier. Concurrently, efforts are underway to salvage the sunken PD-50 drydock, which is estimated to cost around $2.6 million USD.
Donald Trump and His MAGA Allies Could Spark a Dangerous Nuclear Arms Race
The U.S. is preparing to resume nuclear testing and modernize its nuclear arsenal following the expiration of the New START Treaty in February 2026. This shift, advocated by political figures like Sen. Tom Cotton, could lead to a dangerous arms race involving Russia and China. The U.S. has also withdrawn from several key arms control agreements, further escalating tensions in global nuclear strategy.
152mm Monster: Russia’s T-95 Main Battle Tank Summed Up in 2 Words
Russia's Uralvagonzavod developed the T-95 main battle tank in the early 2000s, featuring a 152mm smoothbore gun and advanced protection systems. The program was canceled in 2010 due to high costs and complexity, despite its revolutionary design aimed at enhancing armored warfare. The T-14 Armata, unveiled later, incorporated some of the T-95's technology but with a smaller caliber weapon.
Russia’s Troubled T-14 Main Battle Tank Has a Message for the U.S Army
The Russian Army's T-14 Armata tank, intended to revolutionize armored warfare, has failed to see combat and has only produced fewer than 20 units due to sanctions and manufacturing issues. Despite its advanced features, the tank has been deemed an expensive failure, with production hampered by systemic problems in Russia's defense industry.
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...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...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...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.
Minus 9000 for January — the limit of the Russian voluntary recruitment system
In January 2026, Russian losses on the battlefield exceeded recruitment by 9000 personnel, marking a significant failure of the voluntary recruitment system. This situation has prompted the Russian government to prepare legislative measures for potential forced conscription, as the current model of 'war without mobilization' has reached its limits. The inability to replace personnel threatens the ongoing military operations in Ukraine.
Dmitri VolkovThu Feb 19 2026Loading...The Ukraine War Could Mean the Russian Economy Collapses
Russia faces significant economic challenges as high inflation and government spending threaten its defense industrial sector. The Central Bank's strict fiscal measures have resulted in record-high interest rates, jeopardizing the production of military weaponry. Experts warn that the current economic strategy may lead to irreparable damage to Russia's military capabilities.
Envoys signal no breakthrough on bridging Russia and Ukraine’s military, political differences
U.S.-brokered talks in Geneva between Russian and Ukrainian envoys ended without a breakthrough, with both sides acknowledging the difficulty of negotiations. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy accused Russia of prolonging discussions while continuing military actions. Despite some constructive military discussions, significant political differences remain, particularly regarding territorial issues in eastern Ukraine. A new round of talks is anticipated, with European leaders participating in the process.
B-52 Stratofortress vs Tu-95 Bear vs B-2 Spirit: Cold War Giants and Stealth Revolution
The B-52H Stratofortress, Tu-95MS Bear, and B-2 Spirit are actively utilized in military operations as of 2026, with the B-52H serving as a versatile platform for standoff strikes. The Tu-95MS has been employed in Russia's strategic air campaign against Ukraine, launching Kh-101 missiles from a distance. The B-2 Spirit remains the only aircraft capable of penetrating advanced air defenses, underscoring its critical role in nuclear deterrence.
Dmitri VolkovWed Feb 18 2026Loading...
F-22 Raptor vs F-35 Lightning II vs J-20 vs Su-57: The Fifth Generation Fighter Showdown
The F-22 Raptor, F-35 Lightning II, J-20 Mighty Dragon, and Su-57 Felon represent the forefront of fifth-generation fighter technology. The F-22 excels in stealth and air superiority, while the F-35 emphasizes networked capabilities. The J-20 boasts impressive range and production rates, and the Su-57, despite its agility, faces production challenges. Each aircraft's design reflects different strategic priorities and operational doctrines, shaping future air combat dynamics.
Marcus ChenWed Feb 18 2026Loading...
