Analysis & Reports

Pakistani security forces conducted counter-terrorism operations in Balochistan on July 22, 2023, killing 10 terrorists. The operations took place in Sorab and Mastung, where 7 terrorists were killed in Sorab and 3 in Mastung. Additionally, 2 suicide bombers and their accomplices were arrested, and various weapons and explosives were seized.

France's Air and Space Force will launch PEGASE 26 in September 2026, deploying four Rafale fighter jets and supporting 300 airmen across the Arctic, Indo-Pacific, and Middle East. The operation will last 38 days and involve A330 MRTT and A400M Atlas aircraft for logistics. This mission aims to demonstrate France's military capabilities and strengthen partnerships in these strategic regions.

Pakistani security forces killed 24 terrorists in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on July 17, 2023, during operations aimed at countering increased attacks by the Pakistani Taliban. The military seized a significant amount of weapons and ammunition, and the operation is still ongoing.

On March 4, 2026, a U.S. Navy submarine sank the Iranian frigate IRIS Dena in the Indian Ocean using a Mark 48 torpedo. The attack resulted in the deaths of at least 80 sailors, with only 32 rescued from the 180 aboard. This incident marks the first sinking of an enemy warship by an American submarine since World War II, highlighting the significance of the Mark 48 torpedo in naval warfare.

Pakistan has declared that any attack on Saudi Arabia will be viewed as an attack on itself, marking a significant diplomatic stance amid escalating tensions between Saudi Arabia and Houthi forces. The Houthis have retaliated against Saudi airstrikes, and Pakistan's military leadership has communicated its position to Iran. Concerns are rising that renewed conflict could disrupt the Mandeb Strait, a vital shipping route for global energy supplies.

JS Chokai of the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force will conduct live-fire training with Tomahawk cruise missiles in the Eastern Pacific during Summer 2026. This training, supported by the U.S. Navy's Third Fleet, marks a significant step in Japan's operational capabilities, transitioning from defensive to offensive strike options. The modifications to JS Chokai include the integration of the Mk 41 Vertical Launch System for Tomahawk missiles, enhancing Japan's deterrent posture against regional threats.

Tanaka TakashiFri Jul 17 2026Loading...

The Eastern Theater Navy conducted a coordinated training exercise in the Eastern Theater, involving multiple vessels and personnel. The exercise included aircraft deployment for vertical delivery, hovercraft operations, and artillery fire support. This training aimed to enhance operational efficiency under complex maritime conditions.

Islamic State Sahel Province (ISSP) claimed responsibility for ambushes on Nigerian military patrols on May 15, 2026, resulting in 19 deaths, including 7 soldiers and 1 police officer. The attacks occurred near Runji and Giro Masa in Kebbi and Sokoto states, marking a significant expansion of ISSP's operational area into northwestern Nigeria. The Nigerian government is responding by seeking increased anti-jihadist cooperation with Benin and Niger.

Marie DuboisSat Jul 04 2026Loading...

China fields the largest active-duty military in the world, numbering approximately 2 million personnel. The United States ranks third with about 1.32 million active-duty troops, while India holds second place with 1.43-1.48 million. North Korea's active-duty force is around 1.28-1.3 million, despite its smaller population. Russia's active-duty numbers are influenced by its ongoing military operations in Ukraine, with approximately 1.5 million authorized personnel but actual numbers affected by losses.

The Pakistan military conducted operations against militants along the Pakistani-Afghan border from the night of 28th to 29th, resulting in the death of 29 militants. In response to recent terrorist attacks, these airstrikes also led to significant civilian casualties in Afghanistan, with at least 36 reported dead and 163 injured. The operations followed an attack on a Pakistani paramilitary headquarters that killed three personnel.

Pakistani security forces conducted military operations on June 28-29, 2023, in Bajaur, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and targeted locations in Afghanistan, killing 29 militants. The operations included ground assaults and airstrikes in Paktia, Paktika, and Kunar provinces. The Afghan government condemned the attacks, reporting civilian casualties, including women and children, and described the actions as aggressive.

Pakistani security forces conducted a ground strike operation near the Afghanistan border on June 28, killing 29 militants. This operation was a response to a series of recent terrorist attacks in Pakistan.

The Counter-Terrorism Department of Pakistan killed 6 terrorists in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on June 24 during a joint operation with police. The terrorists had previously attacked a police checkpoint, resulting in the death of one officer. The operation involved intense gunfire, and some firearms and ammunition were seized on-site. A search for other accomplices is ongoing.

Pakistan's Prime Minister stated that ballistic missile discussions were not part of U.S.-Iran negotiations during a press conference with Iranian President in Islamabad on June 23, 2023. Hezbollah's leader demanded Israel's complete withdrawal from Lebanon, emphasizing the need for a ceasefire. The International Maritime Organization initiated an evacuation plan for over 11,000 seafarers stranded in the Strait of Hormuz due to ongoing conflicts. Iran expressed appreciation for Pakistan's diplomatic efforts in the region.

The People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) completed long-range combat training exercises in the West Pacific, returning to Qingdao on June 22, 2023. The exercises involved the Liaoning aircraft carrier and the 075 amphibious assault ship, focusing on joint operations and aerial refueling capabilities. This training was conducted amid provocations from Japanese forces, demonstrating China's enhanced military readiness and operational capabilities.

India commissioned three new naval vessels in Kolkata on Sunday, including the advanced stealth frigate 'Dunagiri.' These ships enhance the Indian Navy's capabilities in anti-submarine warfare and maritime surveillance, addressing the increasing submarine deployments in the Indian Ocean region. The vessels are part of India's broader strategy to modernize its naval forces and reduce reliance on foreign defense imports.

On June 21, 2023, the Indian Navy commissioned three new domestically built vessels in Kolkata, including the Dunagiri stealth frigate, the Sankalp survey vessel, and the Agray anti-submarine warfare vessel. This event marks a significant step in India's efforts to enhance its naval capabilities and self-reliance in defense. The commissioning reflects India's ambition to strengthen its maritime power and address evolving security challenges in the region.

Iran and the U.S. reached an agreement in Switzerland after 18 hours of negotiations on the early morning of the 22nd. The agreement addresses the Lebanon conflict and includes a mechanism for further technical discussions. A high-level committee will oversee the negotiation process, although challenges remain, particularly regarding Iran's nuclear program and Israel's military actions in Lebanon.

U.S. Southern Command conducted a strike against a drug trafficking vessel in the Eastern Pacific on the 18th, resulting in the deaths of three male individuals identified as drug terrorists. The operation was executed by the Joint Task Force 'Southern Strike'.

President Trump presented the Medal of Honor to three service members for their valor in Vietnam and Afghanistan. Retired Marine Maj. James Capers Jr. saved his team during a 1967 ambush, while retired Army Maj. Nicholas Dockery shielded a soldier from a grenade in 2012. Retired Marine Col. John W. Ripley received the award posthumously for his actions in 1972, where he planted explosives under enemy fire to halt a North Vietnamese offensive.