Analysis & Reports

DARPA has designated the X-68A as its new air-launched drone, moving towards flight testing expected by the end of 2026. The drone is designed to operate ahead of traditional fighter aircraft and engage enemy targets using its own air-to-air missiles. Initial testing will validate its safe employment from an F-15 aircraft, with a focus on performance and integration with existing systems.

U.S. Navy aircraft carriers are being tested by missile salvos, drones, and submarines, particularly in the South China Sea and Central Command area. The Navy is considering deploying laser-equipped escort ships to enhance defense capabilities. Each carrier is equipped with 100 to 125 interceptor missiles, which may be inadequate in mass attack scenarios. The USS Gerald R. Ford is currently deployed to deter threats from Iran.

Russia warns of potential military action in the Baltic Sea, with Nikolai Patrushev indicating that the Russian Navy may respond to maritime blockades. He criticized NATO's efforts to monitor Russian maritime trade and suggested that any attempts to restrict this trade could provoke military responses. The situation is complicated by increased NATO surveillance and enforcement actions against vessels linked to sanctions circumvention.

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) conducted military exercises in the Strait of Hormuz, partially closing the vital shipping route for security reasons. The exercises involved the use of naval mines and missiles, demonstrating Iran's capability to disrupt maritime traffic. This action is part of ongoing tensions in the region, with potential implications for global oil markets and military responses from Western forces.

The Joint Integrated Fire Center (JIFC) coordinated cyber operations during the operation to capture Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro. CYBERCOM successfully disrupted air defense systems and communications in Venezuela, demonstrating the effectiveness of integrated cyber capabilities. This operation highlighted the critical role of cyber and space operations in modern military engagements.

Wilhelm Smith rescued fellow sailor Peter J. Walsh from toxic fumes aboard USS New York on January 24, 1916. Smith, a gunner's mate third class, was awarded the Medal of Honor for his heroic actions. The USS New York was involved in maintaining U.S. neutrality during WWI.

Ulysses S. Grant commanded 25,000 Federal troops during the Battle of Fort Donelson from February 11-16, 1862, surrounding the fort and demanding unconditional surrender from Confederate General Buckner. This aggressive strategy solidified Grant's reputation and led to his nickname 'Unconditional Surrender Grant.'

Iran closed portions of the Strait of Hormuz for live-fire military exercises amid ongoing nuclear negotiations with the U.S. The U.S. Navy is deploying a second aircraft carrier, USS Gerald R. Ford, to the Middle East, while preparations for potential military operations against Iran are underway. U.S. officials indicated that these operations could target Iranian state and security facilities, not just nuclear infrastructure.

The report highlights the historical performance and significance of several fighter jets, including the MiG-21, Sukhoi Su-7, Chengdu J-7, Convair F-102 Delta Dagger, and Yak-38. These aircraft, primarily from the mid-20th century, are noted for their limitations and current status, with some still in service in countries like North Korea and China. The analysis reflects on their operational roles and the evolution of fighter jet technology over time.

The Russian delegation, led by Vladimir Medinsky, participated in trilateral negotiations in Geneva with Ukraine and the United States in February 2026. Despite the discussions, Russia's military objectives remain unchanged, and Ukraine's energy infrastructure has suffered extensive damage from ongoing strikes. Zelensky warned of a potential massive Russian strike ahead of the talks, indicating continued military pressure on Ukraine. The negotiations are expected to yield limited results, with no significant concessions from Russia.

Alexandra ReevesTue Feb 17 2026Loading...

USS Gerald R. Ford is extending its deployment to the Middle East, potentially exceeding 300 days at sea, which would break the previous record for aircraft carrier deployments. This decision comes amid rising tensions with Iran and highlights the operational demands on the U.S. Navy. Chief of Naval Operations has raised concerns about the impact of such long deployments on sailor morale and maintenance schedules.

During the Hedgehog 2025 exercise in Estonia, a Ukrainian OPFOR team simulated the destruction of NATO forces, eliminating two battalions in a single day. The exercise involved 16,000 troops from 12 NATO nations and highlighted NATO's unpreparedness for drone warfare, as units moved without concealment. Military experts called for a comprehensive revamp of NATO's operational strategies in response to the lessons learned from the exercise.

On February 14, 2023, JNIM launched a coordinated attack on Titao, Burkina Faso, overwhelming a well-equipped military post and targeting civilian traders. Seven Ghanaian traders were killed in the assault, which involved systematic destruction of telecommunications and economic infrastructure. The attack highlights JNIM's operational capabilities and strategic targeting of supply routes in the region.

Marie DuboisTue Feb 17 2026Loading...

The U.S. Army is experiencing significant readiness challenges as 6% of its Abrams tank fleet is non-mission capable due to delays in spare parts. Advanced manufacturing techniques could restore operational capability quickly, but current procurement policies hinder this process. The Army has identified nearly 1,700 parts suitable for rapid production, which could preserve substantial training value. Congress is beginning to recognize the need for policy changes to improve readiness.

The F-15I Ra’am, used by the Israeli Air Force since the late 1990s, is optimized for long-range precision strikes, featuring Israeli-specific avionics and heavy payload capabilities. In contrast, the U.S. Air Force's F-15EX Eagle II focuses on air superiority and modernization for fifth-generation aircraft support. Both aircraft represent different operational philosophies and requirements within their respective air forces.

Israel has customized its F-35I Adir fighter jets to enhance electronic warfare capabilities against Iranian threats. The Israeli Air Force is set to acquire an additional 25 F-35 stealth fighters in 2024, reflecting its focus on regional security. These modifications include advanced jamming systems and integration of Israeli weapons, enabling effective countermeasures against ground-based air defenses.

The U.S. Armed Forces are preparing for a potential strike campaign against Iran's nuclear and military infrastructure in 2025. This operation could significantly damage Iran's capabilities but may also provoke retaliation from Iranian proxies, expanding the conflict. The U.S. would need to maintain a sustained military presence in the region to manage the escalation and potential energy market disruptions.

USS Iwo Jima (LHD-7) is undergoing major maintenance and repairs, which are expected to sideline the ship until February 2028. The U.S. Navy has awarded a contract to BAE Systems for repairs worth between $204.1 million and $255.8 million. While currently operating in the Caribbean, the ship's readiness may be impacted by rising tensions with Iran, potentially delaying its maintenance schedule.

The U.S. Army conducted live-fire tests of new explosive rounds for the AH-64 Apache helicopter at Yuma Proving Grounds in December. These 30x113mm XM1225 Aviation Proximity Explosive rounds are specifically designed to target enemy drones, featuring a proximity fuse that allows for airburst detonation. The Army aims to enhance the Apache's capabilities as a drone hunting tool, with plans for urgent fielding of the new ammunition.

Ukrainian forces reclaimed 201 square kilometers in Zaporizhzhia Oblast from February 12-16, 2026, following the disruption of Russian communications due to the loss of Starlink terminals. This operational failure led to significant challenges in command and control for Russian troops, halting their assault actions in several sectors. The transition to less effective geostationary satellites further complicates Russian military operations.

Dmitri VolkovTue Feb 17 2026Loading...