Analysis & Reports

China launched its first Type 09V nuclear attack submarine at the Bohai Shipbuilding Heavy Industry yard in February 2026, marking a significant increase in its submarine production capabilities. This development indicates a shift in undersea power dynamics in the Western Pacific, as China expands its naval operations beyond the First Island Chain. The Type 09V features advanced design elements aimed at improving maneuverability and stealth, posing new challenges for regional security and American naval dominance.

Marcus ChenFri Feb 20 2026Loading...

Jama'at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM) conducted coordinated attacks on military positions and civilian targets in Burkina Faso from February 14 to 19, 2026. The assault on the Titao military base involved hundreds of fighters and resulted in at least 20 deaths, including Ghanaian traders. This operation marks a significant escalation in the jihadist threat, showcasing advanced tactical coordination and operational capabilities.

Marie DuboisFri Feb 20 2026Loading...

The Congolese military accused the M23 rebel group of violating a ceasefire agreement by launching attacks in North Kivu and South Kivu on February 18-19, 2023, resulting in civilian casualties. The M23 group also claimed that the Congolese military attacked them, further escalating the conflict in the region. The situation has been tense since January 2025, with ongoing military operations causing significant civilian impact.

Jama'at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM) conducted coordinated attacks in Burkina Faso in February 2026, targeting military bases and civilian markets across multiple locations including Bilanga and Titao. These operations resulted in over 180 fatalities, including soldiers and civilians, and involved hundreds of fighters, indicating a significant escalation in jihadist activities. The attacks demonstrate JNIM's enhanced operational capabilities and strategic intent to undermine state authority and disrupt local economies.

Marie DuboisFri Feb 20 2026Loading...

President Trump warned British PM Keir Starmer on February 18, 2026, against a 100-year lease of Diego Garcia to Mauritius, citing strategic vulnerabilities amid rising tensions with Iran. The U.S. base, home to approximately 1,500 military personnel, is vital for military operations. Critics argue that ceding sovereignty to Mauritius could jeopardize U.S. interests in the region.

The U.S. military is preparing for potential airstrikes against Iran, with significant air power deployed in the Red Sea, Persian Gulf, and North Arabian Sea. President Trump has set a ten-day deadline for Iran to reach a meaningful agreement, or face consequences. Israel has stated it is ready for any situation, while Iran is simultaneously conducting military exercises and reinforcing its defenses. The situation remains tense as military readiness increases on both sides.

The U.S. military is prepared to strike Iran as early as this weekend, with naval assets including the aircraft carrier Ford positioned near Gibraltar. Concurrently, the U.S. conducted its 36th airstrike of the year in Somalia, targeting al-Shabaab militants. Iranian officials have reinforced military sites, complicating potential airstrike efforts. U.S. military assets are being repositioned closer to the Middle East in response to ongoing tensions.

The Alliance of Sahel States announced the formation of a joint military force of 5,000 soldiers in January 2025 to conduct counter-terrorism operations in the Sahel region. This development comes amid rising attacks on military and civilian targets, highlighting the urgent need for enhanced security measures. Concurrently, Terra Industries is advancing its autonomous defense systems to support regional stability.

Marie DuboisThu Feb 19 2026Loading...

U.S. military forces are gathering in the Middle East, deploying numerous aircraft and naval vessels across Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and the United Arab Emirates. Concurrently, Iran is reinforcing its military and nuclear facilities while conducting joint naval exercises with Russia. The U.S. Navy's aircraft carrier strike group, including F-35C fighters, is positioned in the North Arabian Sea, with additional naval assets in the Red Sea and Persian Gulf.

China is mass-producing the J-35 stealth fighter to achieve regional air dominance and support its A2/AD strategy in the Western Pacific. The People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) has begun service with the J-35A variant, while the naval version is optimized for the Type 003 Fujian aircraft carrier. Production targets aim for 300 units annually by 2030, enhancing China's military capabilities against high-value targets.

ISWAP launched a coordinated attack on the military base in Cross Kauwa, Nigeria, on February 17, 2023, killing eight soldiers and wounding 23 others. The assault involved approximately 70 fighters and resulted in the destruction of eleven armored vehicles. This operation marks a significant escalation in ISWAP's activities in the region, highlighting their strategic intent to undermine Nigerian military positions.

Marie DuboisThu Feb 19 2026Loading...

JNIM conducted three major operations in central Mali between January 29 and February 7, 2026, targeting economic infrastructure and local defense networks. The group ambushed a fuel convoy in Kayes, attacked Dozo militiamen in Kendié, and the Malian Army responded with airstrikes in Ségou, killing 35 militants. These actions indicate a coordinated effort to destabilize the region and disrupt supply lines.

Marie DuboisThu Feb 19 2026Loading...

Jama'at Nasr al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM) conducted three major operations in Mali between January 29 and February 7, 2026, targeting economic infrastructure and local defense networks. An ambush on a fuel convoy near Kayes resulted in at least 15 deaths, while an attack on Dozo militiamen in Kendié killed five. The Malian army responded with airstrikes, killing 35 militants, but remains on the defensive as JNIM expands its operational reach.

Marie DuboisThu Feb 19 2026Loading...

Japan is expanding its submarine fleet with the Taigei-class diesel-electric submarines, which utilize lithium-ion batteries to enhance stealth and operational capabilities. The lead submarine entered service in 2022, with additional units planned through 2025. This expansion occurs amid rising naval activity in the East China Sea and Western Pacific, as Japan aims to maintain a credible undersea presence without nuclear propulsion.

Captain Ibrahim Traoré dissolved all political parties in Burkina Faso on January 29, 2026, including those that supported his 2022 coup. This move eliminates potential challengers and creates a political vacuum that may benefit jihadist groups like JNIM. The dissolution is viewed as a significant step in consolidating Traoré's power and undermining civil political structures that could oppose him.

Marie DuboisWed Feb 18 2026Loading...

The U.S. Navy and Royal Navy are enhancing their submarine capabilities with the Virginia-class, Seawolf-class, and Astute-class submarines, focusing on their strategic roles in the Indo-Pacific. The Seawolf-class, with unmatched speed and depth, is limited to three units, while the Virginia-class is evolving with the Block V upgrade to enhance strike capabilities. The Astute-class complements these efforts with advanced sonar systems for anti-submarine warfare.

Marcus ChenWed Feb 18 2026Loading...

In 2026, the U.S. Navy's Arleigh Burke-class, China's Type 055, and the Royal Navy's Type 45 destroyers are compared for their capabilities in the Indo-Pacific. The Arleigh Burke-class has been operational since 1991, while the Type 055 represents a significant advancement in Chinese naval power. The Type 45 is recognized for its sophisticated air-defense systems, although it has limitations in firepower.

Li MinghuiWed Feb 18 2026Loading...

The U.S. Air Force, Republic of Korea Air Force, and Japan Air Self-Defense Force maintain advanced fourth-generation fighter capabilities in the Indo-Pacific region. The F-15 Eagle and F-16 Fighting Falcon are highlighted for their performance and adaptability, while the MiG-29 Fulcrum's limitations are noted in the context of the Ukraine conflict. Taiwan's F-16V upgrades aim to enhance its air defense against superior Chinese forces.

Tanaka TakashiWed Feb 18 2026Loading...

The USS Gerald R. Ford, Fujian, and HMS Queen Elizabeth represent the forefront of aircraft carrier technology and strategy in the Indo-Pacific as of February 2026. The introduction of Fujian with its EMALS technology challenges U.S. naval dominance, while the Queen Elizabeth's STOVL capabilities highlight its role in coalition operations. This competition underscores a shift in naval power dynamics, with significant implications for regional security.

Tanaka TakashiWed Feb 18 2026Loading...

General Amadou Ibro announced the mobilization of hundreds of young Nigeriens against France during a speech in Niamey on February 11, 2026. He declared preparations for war, following accusations that France sponsored a recent attack on the airport. The junta's rhetoric aims to consolidate power amid internal challenges, leveraging historical grievances against France.

Marie DuboisWed Feb 18 2026Loading...