Analysis & Reports

Jama'at Nasr al-Islam wal Muslimin (JNIM) conducted large-scale coordinated attacks across Burkina Faso and Mali between May and July 2025. In February 2026, JNIM launched further coordinated assaults in eastern and northern Burkina Faso. The Islamic State in the Sahel (ISSP) maintains control over the Catupa forest in Northwest Nigeria despite Rwandan air operations. Increased collaboration among jihadist groups is noted, with directives from ISIS's central command to support operations in the Sahel.

Marie DuboisTue Apr 07 2026Loading...

Russia continues its offensive operations against Ukraine as of April 2026, launching missile barrages and artillery fire while sustaining significant equipment losses. NATO has reinforced its eastern flank with military exercises involving 15,500 troops in Northern Europe and 32,500 troops in the Arctic. Ukrainian forces have regained territory through counteroffensive operations, despite heavy personnel losses. The expiration of the New START treaty has further complicated the strategic landscape.

Dmitri VolkovTue Apr 07 2026Loading...

Hanwha is showcasing integrated defense solutions at FIDAE 2026, including the TIGON armored vehicle, K9 self-propelled howitzer, and SAR satellite. The company aims to expand its presence in the Latin American market, particularly in Chile, by offering advanced military systems tailored for regional needs. The exhibition highlights Hanwha's commitment to becoming a strategic defense partner in the area.

The 48th Escort Task Force of the Chinese Navy conducted comprehensive combat training exercises in the Gulf of Aden, involving helicopter operations and artillery fire against simulated threats. The exercises included low-altitude reconnaissance and night landing operations, enhancing the task force's combat readiness and operational capabilities.

The Islamic Republic of Iran Army conducted drone strikes on U.S. military bases located in Hawijah Oasis, Saudi Arabia, and Udayli, Kuwait, on April 6. The strikes targeted eight locations, including accommodation buildings and equipment storage, with satellite imagery released to confirm the attacks.

The U.S. Department of War proposed a $1.5 trillion defense budget increase to modernize military capabilities and replenish stockpiles amid ongoing operations. This budget aims to address challenges posed by adversaries like China and Russia, with a focus on maintaining a credible deterrent in the Indo-Pacific. The U.S. currently has around 375,000 military personnel deployed in the region.

The U.S. released its 2026 National Defense Strategy, pivoting military focus towards homeland defense and deterrence against China in the Indo-Pacific. This strategy emphasizes building a strong defense along the First Island Chain, indicating a significant military buildup in the region. The U.S. aims to enhance its naval presence and missile defense capabilities while practicing realistic diplomacy with Beijing.

Marcus ChenMon Apr 06 2026Loading...

The Houthis are preparing to escalate their involvement in the Iran War by potentially closing the Strait of Bab el-Mandeb and the Red Sea, which would disrupt global trade routes. This action is part of a calibrated strategy designed by Iran to leverage their position without provoking a full-scale US military response. If executed, this blockade could lead to significant economic repercussions worldwide, similar to the impacts of the pandemic shutdowns.

FBI agents Frederick Ayer Jr. and Donald L. Daughters investigated American citizens suspected of collaborating with Nazis in Paris during August 1944. The Army Liaison Unit was formed to track down these collaborators across Europe, revealing a significant number of Americans who had pro-Nazi sentiments before the war. Approximately 135 individuals were scrutinized, and many FBI files on these cases remain classified.

Jama'at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM) conducted unprecedented coordinated attacks in Burkina Faso from March 22-27, 2026, targeting security forces and civilians, leading to numerous casualties. This escalation coincided with the withdrawal of UN forces, allowing jihadist groups to intensify their operations. The Sahel region now represents over half of global terrorism-related deaths, prompting the Alliance of Sahel States to enhance military cooperation.

Marie DuboisMon Apr 06 2026Loading...

Iran threatens to mine the Persian Gulf and potentially the Red Sea and Bab el-Mandeb Strait, leveraging its stockpile of 5,000 to 6,000 sea mines. The Iranian Armed Forces and Houthi militants are involved in these operations, which could significantly disrupt maritime traffic in the region. The threat is heightened by the use of various mine types, including ground influence and tethered mines, deployed from numerous boats and submarines.

The People's Liberation Army (PLA) achieved significant advancements in military modernization by 2026, particularly in naval and aerial capabilities. The PLA now operates three aircraft carriers, including the Fujian, which features advanced electromagnetic launch systems. The J-35 stealth fighter has successfully conducted launch tests, enhancing China's naval aviation capabilities. Additionally, the PLA has modernized its nuclear deterrent with new submarines and missile systems, reflecting a shift in regional military balance.

Li MinghuiMon Apr 06 2026Loading...

The Sahel States Alliance was formed in January 2026 by Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger to address common security challenges. Malian Armed Forces, in collaboration with Russian paramilitary groups, killed 918 civilians between 2025 and 2026, raising concerns about military strategies. The region is acquiring new military capabilities, including Embraer EMB-314 Super Tucano aircraft and Bayraktar TB2 drones, while jihadist groups adapt their tactics amid ongoing military operations.

Marie DuboisSun Apr 05 2026Loading...

The U.S. Navy's F-14 Tomcat successfully shot down five enemy aircraft during its service, including two Libyan jets in the Gulf of Sidra in 1981 and two more in 1989, along with an Iraqi helicopter during Operation Desert Storm in 1991. The aircraft was re-engined in the 1980s, allowing it to remain in service until its retirement in 2006. No F-14s were lost in air-to-air combat, showcasing its effectiveness.

On April 15, 1986, 18 F-111s from the 48th Tactical Fighter Wing conducted airstrikes against Libya, destroying multiple military targets and resulting in significant enemy casualties. The F-111 Aardvark, despite being labeled a failure by some, demonstrated its effectiveness in various combat operations, including over 4,000 missions in Vietnam with minimal losses. Its performance in the Persian Gulf War further solidified its reputation as a capable multirole combat aircraft.

On July 27, 2024, a Russian-Malian column was ambushed near Tinzaouaten, Mali, resulting in the deaths of 46 Russian fighters. This incident marks the largest loss for Russian forces in the Sahel since their deployment. The Africa Corps, which has only 2,500 troops, continues to struggle against jihadist insurgents, revealing significant operational weaknesses.

Marie DuboisSun Apr 05 2026Loading...

Chinese Armed Forces commemorated over 50,000 peacekeepers deployed since 1990, honoring the sacrifices of 17 soldiers, including Li Lei and Shen Liangliang, who died in missions in South Sudan and Mali. The events highlighted the commitment of the Chinese military to international peacekeeping efforts and the enduring legacy of these heroes.

Israeli airstrikes targeted Iranian petrochemical facilities, causing 5 deaths and 170 injuries. Two U.S. Black Hawk helicopters were shot down by Iranian tribesmen while attempting to rescue a downed pilot. Iran also launched drone strikes against U.S. military targets in the Gulf region on April 3-4, 2023.

Iranian tribesmen hit two U.S. Black Hawk helicopters on April 3 while they were attempting to rescue a downed F-35 pilot in the mountainous regions of Kojour and Boyer-Ahmad Province. The Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps acknowledged the effective strike against the helicopters, which were operating far from Iranian military deployments.

African Lion 2026 will occur from April 20 to May 9, 2026, in Morocco, Tunisia, Ghana, and Senegal, testing 43 advanced military systems. Concurrently, AFRIDEX will take place in Lagos from October 26 to 29, 2026, aiming to enhance Africa's defense industrial capabilities. Both events reflect a significant shift towards integrating advanced technologies in military operations and fostering local defense production.

Marie DuboisSat Apr 04 2026Loading...