Analysis & Reports

The Democratic Republic of the Congo is establishing a mining guard of 20,000 personnel to secure cobalt extraction sites and transport routes. The initial deployment of 2,500 to 3,000 recruits is expected by December 2026, with support from the United States and the UAE. This initiative aims to control the mining sector amid ongoing military risks from armed groups in the eastern DRC, where cobalt production is critical for global supply chains.

Marie DuboisMon May 18 2026Loading...

U&C UAS signed a contract to supply advanced unmanned aerial systems to the U.S. Army in Europe. This agreement aims to enhance ISR capabilities and strengthen allied defense across the continent. The UAVs will play a crucial role in improving situational awareness and operational response amid security challenges. U.S. Army representatives noted the effectiveness of U&C's systems during military exercises.

PR-DC introduced a new armed configuration for the IKA-20-M multicopter on May 14, 2026, integrating a 7.62 mm machine gun with a 250-round ammunition capacity. This development enhances the platform's adaptability for various military operations, following previous configurations that included aerial bombs and rockets.

Ukraine has cleared its first domestically developed guided aerial bomb for combat use. The weapon, developed by DG Industry, features a 250-kilogram warhead and is designed to strike high-value targets. Pilots are currently training with the new munition, marking a significant advancement in Ukraine's military capabilities.

Ukrainian forces conducted airstrikes on the Angstrom plant in Zelenograd on May 16-17, 2023, targeting critical microelectronics production for precision weapons. This operation reflects a strategic shift towards disrupting Russian military logistics and industrial capabilities. Russian defense officials reported intercepting numerous drones, but the effectiveness of the strikes on high-value targets remains significant.

Dmitri VolkovMon May 18 2026Loading...

The People's Liberation Army has deployed over 500 modified J-6W drones near the Taiwan Strait, with more than 200 already operational at six air bases in Fujian and Guangdong. These drones are designed to exhaust Taiwan's air defense systems by drawing fire and revealing radar positions. The PLA's logistics model includes a reserve of old aircraft for rapid deployment, while Taiwan faces budget constraints in developing counter-drone systems.

Li MinghuiMon May 18 2026Loading...

Japan's Ministry of Defense is expanding its military space capabilities, establishing a Space Operations Group with 880 personnel by fiscal year 2026. The defense space budget surged to approximately 174 billion yen in 2026, reflecting a strategic shift towards space as a contested environment. Japan is enhancing its satellite capabilities to track hypersonic glide vehicles and improve space situational awareness, while deepening cooperation with the U.S. in space operations.

Japan is deploying MQ-9B SeaGuardian drones equipped with early warning radar over the Pacific to enhance its surveillance against China. This initiative includes mobile air defense radar systems on Iwo Jima and Chichijima, reflecting a strategic commitment to address surveillance gaps. The deployment is a response to increased Chinese military activity in the region, including recent naval operations and provocations.

The Chinese and Mongolian Armies will conduct a joint military training exercise named 'Prairie Partner-2026' in Inner Mongolia from late May to early June 2026. The exercise will focus on joint actions against illegal armed groups and aims to deepen friendship and cooperation between the two nations' armies.

The Ministry of National Defense of China hosted the 2026 Beijing Xiangshan Forum from May 7 to 9, 2026, in Beijing, attended by 121 defense officials and experts from 43 countries. The forum focused on global security governance, discussing challenges and solutions, and aimed to foster dialogue and cooperation among nations to address security issues.

On May 18, the Taiwanese government announced a new defense budget, which has been criticized for being inadequate and exploitative of the public. The spokesperson condemned the government's reliance on foreign military sales and highlighted public discontent regarding military conscription for independence efforts. The report emphasizes that national unity is a more solid guarantee for Taiwan than increased military spending.

On May 18, the Chinese Ministry of Defense stated its commitment to strengthening military relations with the U.S. This follows a meeting between Chinese President Xi Jinping and U.S. President Trump, where they agreed on the importance of constructive strategic stability. The Ministry highlighted the need for dialogue and managing differences to ensure a positive trajectory for military relations.

Three drones attacked the vicinity of the Barakah nuclear power plant in Abu Dhabi on May 17, 2026, with one drone successfully hitting an external generator. UAE air defense forces intercepted two of the drones, revealing vulnerabilities in the country's air defense system. This incident raises significant concerns regarding the security of critical infrastructure in the Gulf amid ongoing regional tensions.

Ahmed Al-RashidMon May 18 2026Loading...

On May 18, 2023, the Chinese Ministry of National Defense stated its opposition to Philippine construction activities on illegally occupied islands in the Spratly Islands. China claims undeniable sovereignty over these territories and will take necessary measures to protect its territorial integrity and maritime rights.

Israeli Defense Forces struck over 30 Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon within the past 24 hours, targeting weapon depots, observation posts, and military infrastructure. The operation resulted in the deaths of several Hezbollah militants who were planning attacks on Israeli soldiers.

Team LionStrike announced the inclusion of the Chevrolet Silverado HD in its proposal to the U.K. Ministry of Defence for the Land Mobility Programme in London. The Silverado HD features a towing capacity of up to 10,000 kg and is designed to enhance the operational readiness of the British Armed Forces. The proposal also includes the Infantry Squad Vehicle (ISV), which provides rapid mobility for infantry combat teams.

STM unveiled the Tunga X interceptor drone at the Istanbul exhibition in 2026. The drone is designed to neutralize enemy drones using a 750 grams high explosive fragmentation warhead. It can reach speeds of 300 km/h and has a range of 25 km. Currently operated manually, it will gain autonomous capabilities by late 2026.

Japan Ground Self-Defense Force conducted a joint training exercise with U.S. Marine Corps on Ishigaki, Miyako, and Yonaguni islands from May 17, 2026, for six days. The exercise involved the deployment of Type 88 anti-ship missile launchers and coordination of command systems. Approximately 300 Japanese personnel and 20 U.S. Marines participated, focusing on logistics and operational readiness in the region. Plans for civilian evacuation were also addressed during the training.

Tanaka TakashiMon May 18 2026Loading...

The Dalian Maritime Safety Administration issued a navigation warning prohibiting entry into certain areas of the Yellow Sea due to military operations scheduled from May 18 at 12:00 to May 23 at 15:00.

Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu announced on May 17, 2023, that Israel is nearing the completion of a key military objective in the Gaza Strip, which involves eliminating Hamas leaders responsible for the October 7 attack. The Israeli Defense Forces have reported significant casualties, with over 72,000 Palestinians killed, primarily civilians, and approximately 1200 Israelis dead since the attack. The situation remains tense with ongoing violence despite a ceasefire agreement.