Analysis & Reports

The People's Liberation Army (PLA) conducted a large-scale joint military exercise named 'Just Mission 2025' in the Taiwan Strait on December 29-30, 2025, marking its first entry into Taiwan's 12 nautical mile contiguous zone. This exercise involved multiple military branches, showcasing enhanced operational capabilities and signaling a shift in China's military posture towards Taiwan. The U.S. responded by urging restraint from Beijing, highlighting the strategic implications of the PLA's actions.

Li MinghuiSun Feb 08 2026Loading...

The 7th UAE Special Police Challenge began on February 7 in Dubai, featuring 109 teams from 48 countries, including 10 women's teams. The Chinese women's special police teams, competing for the first time, achieved notable success, with the Sichuan Women's Special Police Team ranking first among all women's teams. The event focused on tactical operations and teamwork under pressure.

The Iranian Air Force is currently at the highest state of readiness, prepared to respond decisively to any threats or aggression. This declaration was made by Major General Mousavi on February 7, emphasizing the Air Force's role in deterrence and defense. Iran asserts it will protect its national security and territorial integrity, warning that any enemy actions could result in severe consequences.

The Shanghai Armed Police Corps Chemical Defense Unit conducted training exercises focused on responding to biochemical weapon attacks. Troops quickly assembled and deployed to a simulated hazardous area, utilizing protective gear during the training. This exercise is part of their preparation for handling toxic and harmful substance leaks.

Ukraine is enhancing its air defense capabilities with new tasks assigned by President Zelensky to Defense Minister Reznikov. NATO has committed to providing additional air defense systems and offensive weapons, including Patriot systems and F-16 jets. A contract for F-16 maintenance worth over $235 million has been signed, and Ukraine is prioritizing defense against drone and missile threats.

Western navies, including those of France, the UK, the Netherlands, Italy, and the USA, are preparing to enhance their military capabilities in response to threats from Russian submarines. During a naval conference in Paris on February 2-3, 2023, officials expressed concerns about potential conflicts and emphasized the need for increased readiness and cooperation. The Dutch Navy Commander highlighted a specific readiness date of January 1, 2028, while U.S. officials noted expected improvements in naval firepower.

The August 1st Aerobatic Team of the Chinese Air Force performed at the Singapore Airshow, showcasing their aerial capabilities. The event took place recently in Singapore and was well-received by attendees.

Russian military launched large-scale strikes on Ukrainian military energy and transportation infrastructure using precision weapons, including Kinzhal hypersonic missiles. Ukrainian forces repelled 80 Russian attacks across the front lines, particularly in the Lyman and Pokrovsk areas, as of 16:00 local time.

The Department of Veterans Affairs reported a slight decrease in veteran suicides in 2023, with 6,398 veterans taking their own lives, down from 6,442 in 2022. Despite this decrease, the suicide rate among veterans increased to 35.2 per 100,000, more than double that of non-veteran adults. Contributing factors include homelessness and traumatic brain injury, with the VA investing $571 million in suicide prevention efforts.

Eight military aircraft, including B-1 Lancers and F/A-18 Super Hornets, conducted a joint flyover during the Super Bowl at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, California. The operation, involving both the U.S. Air Force and Navy, was meticulously timed to coincide with the National Anthem. Pilots emphasized the importance of precision and coordination in this rare display of military capability.

Two National Guard members, Specialist Sarah Beckstrom and Staff Sergeant Andrew Wolfe, were shot in Washington, D.C. on November 27, 2025, with Beckstrom succumbing to her injuries. They are set to receive the Purple Heart for their service. The shooter, identified as Rahmanullah Lakanwal, attacked the members outside a Metro station before being restrained. The incident highlights the ongoing presence of National Guard troops in the capital as part of a federal mission.

On February 7, Russian forces conducted large-scale airstrikes against Ukrainian energy and transportation infrastructure, resulting in significant damage and widespread power outages across the country. Ukrainian President Zelensky confirmed the impact of these attacks, which involved 39 missiles, including Zircon hypersonic missiles, and 408 drones targeting critical facilities.

U.S. special operations forces executed a coordinated assault on the Espacio Lejano Station in Neuquén Province, Argentina, aiming to seize control of Chinese satellite communication capabilities. The operation involved 30 Navy SEALs, two Ranger assault platoons, and advanced technology including drones. This action is part of a broader strategy to counter Chinese influence globally and disrupt their space operations.

Ukraine confirmed the shootdown of a Russian Su-34 fighter-bomber and an Su-30SM multirole fighter by a U.S.-made PAC-3 Patriot system. Both aircraft were equipped with Khibiny electronic warfare systems, which failed to counter the Western air defense. This incident highlights the ongoing challenges faced by the Russian Air Force in Ukraine, with at least 23 Su-34s lost since the conflict began.

Russian Armed Forces launched large-scale strikes on Ukrainian military infrastructure over the past 24 hours, utilizing precision weapons including Kinzhal and Zircon hypersonic missiles. Ukrainian air defense reported the interception of one guided bomb and 168 drones. The Ukrainian Air Force stated that 39 missiles and 408 drones were deployed in these attacks targeting critical infrastructure.

On February 7, Russian forces launched a new wave of airstrikes against Ukraine, utilizing over 400 drones and nearly 40 missiles, including Zircon hypersonic missiles. The strikes primarily targeted Ukraine's power grid and energy infrastructure, affecting multiple regions such as Volyn, Ivano-Frankivsk, and Kyiv. Ukrainian air defense operations are ongoing, and emergency rolling blackouts have been implemented nationwide.

Over thirty fighters from the Islamic State in the Greater Sahara attacked the Diori Hamani International Airport and Base Aérienne 101 in Niamey, Niger, shortly after midnight on January 29. The assault lasted nearly two hours, resulting in three civilian aircraft being hit and one ammunition depot destroyed. Four Nigerien soldiers were injured, and local reports indicate twenty attackers were killed and eleven captured.

Marie DuboisSat Feb 07 2026Loading...

The People's Liberation Army Southern Theater Command conducted routine naval patrols in the South China Sea from February 2 to 6. This operation is a response to the Philippines' collaboration with external nations, which China views as destabilizing to regional peace. The Chinese military remains on high alert to protect national sovereignty and maritime interests.

NORAD is conducting an airspace intercept exercise to secure the airspace over Levi's Stadium during Super Bowl LX on February 8, 2026. The operation involves coordination with federal, state, and local authorities to enforce temporary flight restrictions and ensure safety. NORAD will monitor the restricted airspace using established air defense procedures to prevent unauthorized aircraft from entering the area.

U.S. Army soldiers from the 4th Battalion, 319th Airborne Field Artillery Regiment conducted live-fire training with the M777 Alpha 2 howitzer at the Grafenwoehr Training Area in Germany on February 5, 2026. This training was part of a Table XV qualification, focusing on crew coordination and fire mission procedures under operational conditions. The M777 Alpha 2 howitzer is the latest variant designed for long-range, precision indirect fire.