Analysis & Reports

Ukrainian drone operators destroyed two NATO battalions during a military exercise in Estonia last May, revealing critical operational flaws in NATO's approach. The exercise demonstrated the effectiveness of Ukraine's Delta battlefield-management system, which coordinated drone strikes that eliminated numerous armored vehicles. NATO forces struggled with concealment and suffered significant losses, underscoring a gap in drone capabilities compared to Ukraine.

Alexandra ReevesSat Feb 14 2026Loading...

Two J-16 fighter jets from the People's Liberation Army Air Force conducted air defense missions in the South China Sea during the Spring Festival holiday. Pilots were on high alert, ready to respond to unidentified aerial threats, demonstrating the operational readiness of the air force. The entire team and systems were prepared for rapid deployment and effective response.

A border defense company from the Shannan Military District conducted armed patrols in the treacherous mountainous region of Tibet before the Spring Festival of 2026. The patrol involved 14 soldiers, who face numerous dangers, including steep cliffs and landslides. The soldiers commemorate their fallen comrades along the patrol route, emphasizing the risks involved in their mission.

Carrier-based helicopter units conduct search and rescue operations for downed pilots on aircraft carriers, maintaining 24/7 readiness. These helicopters, such as the Z-9, are crucial for ensuring pilot safety, especially during nighttime missions. The operations are complex due to environmental conditions, requiring precise coordination to rescue pilots from cold waters.

The joint law enforcement operation concluded successfully on February 13, involving Chinese law enforcement units and counterparts from Laos, Myanmar, and Thailand. The operation lasted five days, covering over 700 kilometers, and included inspections of 50 vessels and 200 individuals in high-risk areas of the Mekong River. A meeting was also held to strengthen cooperation against crime in the region.

The Navy of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) conducted naval training exercises in the East China Sea, deploying multiple vessels, including the 075 amphibious assault ship Guangxi, before the Spring Festival in 2026. Personnel engaged in aircraft takeoff and landing training, emphasizing readiness for real combat scenarios. This operation reflects the PLA's commitment to maintaining operational capabilities during national holidays.

A U.S. Marine Corps sergeant fell from the USS Iwo Jima in the Caribbean Sea on February 7 and was later declared dead after a search operation. On February 11, two U.S. Navy vessels collided during a refueling operation, injuring two sailors. These incidents are part of a larger U.S. military deployment in the region to support anti-drug operations.

The U.S. Navy deployed the USS Ford aircraft carrier strike group to the Middle East on October 13, 2023, to join the USS Lincoln, enhancing military pressure on Iran. This move aims to strengthen U.S. negotiating leverage amid ongoing discussions. Despite previous operational issues, the USS Ford is now considered ready for major operations, with the combined carrier presence allowing for over 120 aircraft to be deployed in the region.

On February 13, the People's Liberation Army Air Force successfully locked onto a foreign stealth aircraft at a distance of 800 meters using a J-16 fighter jet. This operation highlights the effectiveness of China's multi-layered anti-stealth defense system, which integrates ground-based and airborne radar support. The incident raises questions about the challenges of detecting stealth aircraft at greater distances and the operational costs involved in such military engagements.

Li MinghuiSat Feb 14 2026Loading...

The Netherlands will deploy the amphibious transport ship 'John Dewitt' to Norway for the 'Cold Response' military exercise from March 9 to 20, 2023. This exercise involves approximately 25,000 military personnel from 14 NATO countries and is part of the broader 'Arctic Sentinel' operation aimed at strengthening NATO's presence in the Arctic region.

A group of young soldiers from the People's Liberation Army Navy is currently serving on the Hainan ship, demonstrating loyalty and bravery. They are characterized as passionate youth committed to their military duties, embodying the ship's motto of loyalty and fearlessness.

On February 13, U.S. Southern Command conducted a lethal strike against a drug trafficking vessel in the Caribbean Sea, resulting in the deaths of three drug traffickers. This operation is part of a broader campaign against drug trafficking in the region, which has seen multiple strikes since September 2022. No U.S. personnel were injured during the operation.

Russian forces have taken control of four villages in Ukraine, including Chuhunivka and Sydorivka, between February 7 and 13, 2023. They conducted drone strikes on Odesa, resulting in one civilian death and six injuries, while also damaging port infrastructure. Additionally, Russian air defense intercepted several Ukrainian missiles and drones during this period.

U.S. Coast Guard forces boarded and seized the oil tanker Skipper in international waters near Venezuela on December 10, detaining approximately 30 sailors. The operation was prompted by the vessel's misreporting of geolocation data and its status as a U.S.-sanctioned ship. China condemned the seizure as unlawful, claiming it violated international law.

U.S. personnel were wounded during a raid to capture Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro in Caracas. The operation, named Absolute Resolve, involved over 200 forces and 150 aircraft. President Trump confirmed that helicopter pilots sustained injuries from enemy fire, but threats were neutralized by snipers. One soldier involved in the operation is set to receive the Medal of Honor.

The USS Gerald R. Ford is deploying to the Arabian Sea to join the USS Abraham Lincoln, enhancing U.S. Navy's dual-carrier operations in the Middle East. This deployment aims to increase pressure on Iran, utilizing advanced aircraft and missile systems for potential targeted strikes. The operation is expected to be quick and precise, focusing on Iranian command and control facilities.

The Israeli Air Force (IAF) deployed its F-35I Adir fleet to conduct airstrikes against Iranian targets during a 12-day conflict. The operations involved beyond-visual-range strikes and drone swarms, highlighting a shift towards distributed and unmanned warfare. Despite the F-35I's use, critics argue that it was not the decisive weapon and emphasize the need for a focus on drone technology instead of costly manned aircraft.

Allied forces conducted a devastating bombing campaign on Dresden from February 13 to 14, 1945, involving British Lancaster bombers and American B-17s. The attacks resulted in approximately 25,000 deaths and the destruction of 75,000 homes, with many victims succumbing to carbon monoxide poisoning. The city, previously relatively unscathed, faced unprecedented destruction and loss of life.

U.S. President Trump confirmed the deployment of a second aircraft carrier strike group to the Middle East on February 13, 2023, to exert pressure on Iran for a potential agreement. The USS Gerald R. Ford is already being deployed from the Caribbean, with the U.S. Navy prepared for further military action if negotiations fail.

Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) Chief of Staff conducted an inspection in Rafah on October 13, asserting that the IDF has destroyed all Hamas frontline combat camps and is ready to shift to offensive operations if needed. The IDF is currently monitoring border crossings into Gaza and aims to demilitarize the region, having recently established the 38th Brigade to enhance ground combat capabilities.