Analysis & Reports

In July 2026, the Nigerian Armed Forces mobilized 28,000 recruits in response to ongoing security challenges, including the recent kidnapping of over 40 individuals in Zamfara. The attacks are linked to Kachalla Sa'idu's gang, highlighting the escalating violence in the region. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu announced the expansion of the military to address these threats.

Marie DuboisFri Jul 24 2026Loading...

Germany plans to withdraw two naval vessels, the mine sweeper Fulda and supply ship Mosel, from the Red Sea to the eastern Mediterranean due to the ongoing conflict in Iran. The German Navy's ships were previously stationed in the Gulf of Aden and are on standby for mine-clearing operations in the Strait of Hormuz. The decision reflects concerns over regional instability and the uncertain security situation following military actions against Iran.

On October 13, 2023, U.S. Central Command conducted airstrikes against multiple Iranian targets, including missile and drone facilities, in response to Iranian threats. The Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps retaliated by attacking U.S. military bases in Kuwait and Bahrain, destroying key military infrastructure. The conflict has intensified, undermining a fragile ceasefire and raising tensions over control of the Hormuz Strait.

On July 5, 2026, the Malian army reported killing over 20 attackers during coordinated assaults on military camps in Gao and Sévaré, and a prison near Kenioroba. The Front for the Liberation of Azawad (FLA) and the Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims (JNIM) executed these attacks, testing the security of Bamako. The operations indicate a strategic effort to stretch Malian military resources across multiple fronts.

Marie DuboisTue Jul 07 2026Loading...

Egypt inaugurated a new military headquarters complex in Cairo's New Administrative Capital on Saturday. The 22,000-acre facility, featuring advanced technology and secure communications, aims to enhance command and control capabilities. An air show by the Egyptian air force showcased various military aircraft, emphasizing the complex's significance in strengthening national defense. President el-Sissi highlighted its role in addressing regional challenges and improving military readiness.

Egypt inaugurated the Octagon, a strategic military headquarters, on July 4, 2023, in the New Administrative Capital. The complex spans 22,000 acres and aims to centralize military command and crisis management to address regional threats. It is designed to improve data sharing and operational efficiency for the Egyptian Armed Forces.

Marie DuboisMon Jul 06 2026Loading...

Thales and Leonardo are delivering a next-generation secure deployable communication and information system for NATO Special Operations Forces Command (SOFCOM) across Europe. This initiative includes six deployable Head Quarters (HQs) and aims to enhance operational effectiveness with advanced capabilities such as real-time Full Motion Video sharing. The project is part of a larger NATO program to strengthen resilience in modern warfare, leveraging European industrial assets and expertise.

Chinese naval vessels conducted routine training exercises in the Western Pacific from June 25 to July 1, with Japan closely monitoring their movements. The Japanese Ministry of Defense reported on at least 7 Chinese vessels, including advanced destroyers and frigates. This increased activity has raised concerns in Japan, prompting multiple reports on the situation, while experts assert that China's actions are legal under international law.

The Africa Corps trained 20 Malian paratroopers at Bamako's Modibo Keïta International Airport on July 4, 2026, using D-6 parachutes and a Mi-8AMTSh helicopter. This training highlights the operational mobility challenges faced by the Malian Armed Forces, which have limited resources. The 33rd Parachute Regiment, the only airborne unit in Mali, symbolizes a shift in military cooperation from France to Russia.

Marie DuboisSun Jul 05 2026Loading...

The U.S. withdrew most of its forces from Nigeria following a military operation against ISIS in May, which resulted in the death of Abu-Bilal al-Minuki. AFRICOM continues to provide intelligence support at Nigeria's request, emphasizing a partnership model for future security cooperation. The operation significantly disrupted ISIS's leadership and communications, contributing to ongoing military pressure from Nigeria.

The United States has withdrawn most of its combat troops from Nigeria following a successful counterterrorism operation against ISIS in the Lake Chad Basin. U.S. Africa Command confirmed the drawdown during the 2026 African Chiefs of Defense Conference, highlighting the operation's success in degrading ISIS leadership. While combat troops have been withdrawn, the U.S. continues to support Nigeria with training and advisory missions.

U.S. Africa Command is withdrawing approximately 200 troops from Nigeria by 2026, while Nigeria seeks to establish a tri-border military sector with Benin and Niger. The withdrawal does not signify a complete abandonment, as the U.S. continues to support Nigeria through intelligence sharing. The Nigerian military aims to close gaps exploited by jihadist groups, particularly in the context of ongoing operations against ISWAP.

Marie DuboisFri Jul 03 2026Loading...

U.S. and French forces conducted a joint live fire training exercise at the Arta training range in Djibouti on June 22, 2026. The exercise involved airstrikes and real-time coordination between ground controllers and aircraft, including the French Dassault Mirage 2000 and SA 342M Gazelle. This training is significant due to Djibouti's strategic location near a Chinese military base and the ongoing military presence of both nations in the region.

On October 27, 2023, the Chinese and Russian air forces conducted their 11th joint aerial strategic patrol over the Sea of Japan, East China Sea, and Western Pacific. The operation lasted approximately 6 hours, with both nations' aircraft adhering to international law. In response, Japan's Self-Defense Forces scrambled aircraft, expressing diplomatic concerns regarding the patrol.

On October 27, 2023, the Chinese and Russian air forces conducted their 11th joint strategic air patrol, flying through the Miyako Strait, Sea of Japan, East China Sea, and Western Pacific. The operation involved multiple aircraft, including H-6K bombers and Tu-95s, demonstrating their collaborative military capabilities. The KJ-500A acted as the command center, coordinating the mission.

On June 27, the Chinese People's Liberation Army Air Force and the Russian Air Force conducted their 11th joint air strategic patrol across the Sea of Japan, East China Sea, and Western Pacific. The operation involved multiple aircraft types, including H-6K bombers and Y-20 tankers, showcasing enhanced military cooperation and capabilities. This patrol serves as a pressure test for regional adversaries, particularly Japan and Taiwan, while demonstrating the growing operational integration of Chinese and Russian air forces.

Li MinghuiSun Jun 28 2026Loading...

General Christopher Donahue is set to step down from his role as the top Army general in Europe and Africa, with an announcement expected on Wednesday. This follows a series of leadership changes initiated by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, raising concerns about the future of military command structure. Donahue, known for being the last soldier to leave Afghanistan, has been in command since December 2024.

The U.S. Marine Corps is conducting routine operations with Wasp-class amphibious assault ships in the Gulf of Aden and U.S. 3rd Fleet. These ships are capable of launching F-35B Lightning II fighters and supporting Marine Expeditionary Units. The operational focus includes island warfare in the Indo-Pacific region, enhancing the Marines' combat capabilities.

China's aircraft carriers, including Liaoning, Shandong, and the upcoming Fujian, are actively engaged in extensive training and operational exercises in the Western Pacific from 2023 to 2025. Shandong conducted significant drills in April and September 2023, while Fujian is set to enter service in November 2025, showcasing advanced capabilities with electromagnetic catapults. The dual-carrier exercises aim to improve the combat readiness of the People's Liberation Army Navy.

The Liaoning aircraft carrier group completed over 40 days of realistic combat training, returning safely to Qingdao on the 22nd. The training involved operations in the South China Sea and Western Pacific, enhancing the group's capabilities through joint exercises with amphibious assault ships. The use of the Yunyou-20 tanker significantly increased the operational range of the carrier-based J-15 fighter jets, while the group remained vigilant against provocations from Japanese naval forces.