Analysis & Reports

The 157th Air Refueling Wing conducted a nuclear operational readiness exercise at Pease from February 5–8, testing its aerial refueling capabilities in support of the U.S. nuclear deterrence mission. The exercise involved the KC-46A Pegasus and focused on validating procedures and command-and-control processes. Despite severe winter conditions, the unit reported no injuries and successfully executed operations under time constraints.

China is actively planning to suppress U.S. airpower in the Western Pacific by targeting forward bases with precision-guided missiles, aiming to ground F-35 fighters and bombers without engaging in aerial combat. This strategy emphasizes the importance of logistics and rapid runway repair for the U.S. to maintain operational capabilities under sustained missile fire.

Napoleon Bonaparte revolutionized warfare in the 19th century by mastering the 'fog of war' and employing combined-arms tactics with his Napoleonic Corps. He utilized infantry, cavalry, and artillery flexibly to create tactical advantages, particularly during the Battle of the Pyramids in Egypt. His strategies emphasized decentralized command and controlling the battlefield's center, leading to significant military victories.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced the formation of a new combat division, the 38th Division, on October 10. This marks the first establishment of a new combat division in decades. The division will integrate various units from the ground forces training system and is expected to achieve ground combat capability by 2027.

U.S. Air Force conducted airstrikes on December 25, 2025, in Bauni, Nigeria, killing over 100 fighters. The strikes targeted positions claimed to be affiliated with ISIS, but local sources indicate the presence of the Lakurawa group instead. This operation signifies a renewed military strategy by AFRICOM in Africa, raising concerns about civilian casualties and the accuracy of intelligence used.

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The USS Santa Barbara conducted a live-fire training exercise in the Persian Gulf, supported by an A-10 Thunderbolt II for aerial coordination. This operation highlights the ongoing military presence in the region, particularly near the strategically important Strait of Hormuz, amid rising tensions with Iran. The Littoral Combat Ships are being repurposed for mine hunting as the U.S. military continues to adapt its aging equipment for current operational needs.

Russian Aerospace Forces conducted continuous airstrikes over Ukraine in January 2026, dropping 5,717 guided bombs, including the newly developed UMPB-5. This weapon allows strikes from distances of 50-60 km, keeping aircraft safe from Ukrainian air defense systems. A recent strike on Kharkiv resulted in 33 civilian injuries, highlighting the impact of this new tactical approach.

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The August 1st Air Demonstration Team of the People's Liberation Army Air Force successfully completed their mission at the 10th Singapore Airshow on October 10. They performed five flight demonstrations, showcasing their capabilities and engaging in cultural exchanges with international teams. After the event, they returned to China via aerial refueling from a Y-20 tanker, receiving a warm welcome at their home airport.

Iran maintains one of the largest standing armed forces in the Middle East, with approximately 610,000 active personnel, including the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. The country has a diverse missile arsenal and has shifted its military strategy towards offensive operations. Iran's defense budget for 2024 is estimated at $7.9 billion, indicating ongoing military readiness despite economic challenges.

Since mid-January 2026, over 80 U.S. military transport flights have deployed air defense systems, including Patriot and THAAD batteries, to bases in Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Qatar. This deployment is part of preparations for potential military action against Iran, with F-35A fighters also being sent to the region. Despite significant investments in air defense by Gulf states, the U.S. continues to provide direct military support, highlighting limitations in local capabilities.

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ISWAP and ISIS affiliates attacked Niamey International Airport on January 29, destroying a Bayraktar TB2 drone and damaging several aircraft, resulting in 27 government personnel fatalities. This operation highlights a growing alliance between ISWAP and ISIS factions, with implications for regional security as they coordinate attacks across the Sahel and Lake Chad Basin.

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On February 10, the China Coast Guard vessel 2503 conducted a patrol in the territorial waters of the Diaoyu Islands. This operation is part of China's rights protection activities in the area.

Russian forces conducted airstrikes on nuclear power plant infrastructure in Ukraine on February 6-7, 2026, deploying 408 drones and 39 missiles. Ukrainian air defense successfully intercepted 406 of these, but 34 managed to strike 19 locations, severely impacting energy generation. This operation represents a strategic shift in targeting high-voltage substations, aiming to disrupt the energy supply and increase pressure on Ukraine amid ongoing negotiations.

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Taiwan's military plans to deploy the HIMARS system to Penghu and Dongyin, enabling strikes on PLA positions in Fujian and Zhejiang. The Taiwanese defense department has suggested a preemptive strike against the PLA. A spokesperson from the Ministry of National Defense warned that any provocation by Taiwanese independence forces would lead to severe consequences from the PLA.

The August 1st Aerobatic Team of the Chinese Air Force participated in the 10th Singapore Airshow from February 3-8, 2023. This marked their first appearance in Singapore in six years, showcasing their upgraded J-10C fighter jets. The team performed three official shows, including synchronized maneuvers and color smoke displays symbolizing the friendship between China and Singapore. The event aimed to enhance international military cooperation and foster diplomatic relations.

Ukrainian forces conducted 48 fire missions in January 2026 targeting Russian oil and gas infrastructure as part of the DeepStrike campaign. This resulted in a 19% reduction in Russian oil refining output, with direct losses exceeding $1.3 billion in 2025. The campaign has significantly impacted Russia's ability to sustain its military operations, as 42% of its refining infrastructure has been under attack.

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Carrier-based helicopters onboard the aircraft carrier are designated for search and rescue missions, providing critical support for pilots during landing operations. The effective landing area is limited to approximately 30 meters, making the helicopters essential for ensuring pilot safety in emergencies. They are referred to as the 'fifth arrestor wire' due to their role in safeguarding pilots at sea.

The Sansha Maritime Safety Administration announced rocket recovery operations in the South China Sea from February 10 to February 12, 2023. Access to the area is prohibited during this period to ensure safety during the operations.

Adm. Daryl Caudle advocates for the U.S. Navy to utilize smaller, newer assets for missions instead of large aircraft carriers, focusing on the Caribbean and Middle East. The USS Gerald R. Ford and USS Abraham Lincoln have been redeployed to support operations against Nicolás Maduro and rising tensions with Iran, respectively. Caudle's strategy emphasizes tailored naval groups and the use of drones to enhance operational flexibility.

The U.S. Navy, alongside 25,000 personnel from 26 nations, participated in the Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2016 exercise from June 30 to August 4, 2016, in the Hawaiian Islands and Southern California. The exercise featured over 40 ships and submarines, and more than 200 aircraft, including the F/A-18 Hornet, which demonstrated its multirole capabilities essential for naval operations. This event underscored the importance of international cooperation in maintaining maritime security.