Analysis & Reports

The U.S. Air Force is set to deploy 48 F-35A stealth fighters to Misawa Air Base in Japan, replacing 36 F-16s as part of a modernization plan announced in 2024. This upgrade aims to enhance U.S. airpower and regional deterrence along the first island chain. The timeline for the arrival of the F-35As remains unclear, but Misawa's role as a key military outpost is expanding.

The U.S. Space Force is planning to issue a contract this summer to create a pool of vendors for hands-on training in electronic, cyber, and orbital warfare. This initiative includes the development of an orbital training range to enhance operational capabilities. The acquisition strategy for this program is nearing completion, following a gap analysis conducted in December 2022.

Pakistani security forces conducted operations in Balochistan Province on January 29, 2023, killing 41 terrorists. In Harnai, 30 terrorists were killed during an intelligence-based operation, while 11 were killed in Panjgur. The forces seized a significant amount of weapons and explosives, and recovered cash linked to a previous bank robbery.

The Israel Defense Forces completed a command post exercise named 'Lion's Moment' on January 30. The week-long exercise simulated operational progression within the Central Command area, focusing on decision-making processes and the implementation of defense systems. All necessary command rooms were activated to address various emergency scenarios.

The U.S. military is mobilizing forces in the Middle East, with the USS Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group heading towards Iran amid rising tensions. Increased deployments of aircraft and naval vessels have been observed at U.S. bases in Qatar and Saudi Arabia. Iran has responded by mobilizing its strategic drones and issuing warnings against potential U.S. military actions.

He Haiyang, a sailor from the People's Liberation Army Navy's Baotou Ship, rescued a civilian who fell into the East China Sea on January 15. He and another crew member jumped into the cold water to save the individual, who had lost consciousness. Medical personnel on board provided immediate care, and the civilian was later transported to a hospital for further treatment.

Intensive training exercises are occurring at a People's Liberation Army Air Force base during winter, featuring various aircraft and support vehicles. The atmosphere is described as tense, highlighting the active military operations taking place.

The Chinese Coast Guard conducted law enforcement patrols in the territorial waters of Huangyan Island on January 30. These patrols aimed to address illegal intrusions by foreign vessels and included emergency rescue operations for Filipino crew members in distress. This action is part of China's ongoing efforts to assert its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights in the region.

The 82nd Group Army conducted high-intensity training in frozen snowy terrain to enhance combat readiness. Personnel operated tanks under harsh winter conditions, focusing on skills such as navigating steep slopes and low visibility. The exercise aimed to improve tactical coordination and equipment performance in extreme weather.

The August 1st Air Demonstration Team of the People's Liberation Army Air Force conducted adaptive training at Changi Airport, Singapore, on January 30. They performed at the first flight of the 10th Singapore Airshow, which is set to take place from February 3 to 8. The team arrived with 7 J-10 aircraft and 1 Y-20A tanker for logistical support.

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy will conduct live-fire exercises in the Strait of Hormuz on February 1-2. This announcement follows U.S. Defense Secretary's comments on readiness to respond to President Trump's directives regarding Iran. The Strait is a vital route for global oil and gas transport.

The U.S. Air Force conducted Operation Absolute Resolve on January 3 to capture Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, utilizing 150 aircraft from approximately 20 bases. Lockheed Martin's CEO confirmed the involvement of RQ-170 Sentinel drones, F-35 and F-22 fighter jets, and Sikorsky Black Hawk helicopters. This operation marks a significant use of the RQ-170, which has not been publicly acknowledged in military operations for years.

The U.S. has historically developed military capabilities in Greenland, emphasizing its strategic importance since World War II. The Thule Air Base remains a critical asset for U.S. defense, equipped with advanced missile warning systems. Recent agreements with Denmark allow U.S. operations in Greenland, reflecting ongoing military interests amid rising Arctic tensions with Russia.

Iran has heightened its military readiness and rhetoric in response to U.S. threats as 30,000 to 40,000 American troops are stationed in the Middle East. The USS Abraham Lincoln and other military assets have been deployed to the region. Iran's armed forces are prepared to counter any aggression, reflecting a tense standoff amid stalled negotiations over its nuclear program and military capabilities.

Iran has increased its military readiness in response to the U.S. deployment of 30,000 to 40,000 troops in the Middle East. The USS Abraham Lincoln and other military assets have been positioned to deter potential aggression. Iranian officials have warned of a strong retaliation if attacked, highlighting the heightened tensions and lack of progress in diplomatic negotiations.

The Army redesignated a brigade as the Army Security Cooperation Group - South to conduct jungle warfare training in Panama. This unit will oversee the Jungle Operations Training Course, which will award Jungle tabs for the first time in February 2023. The course, lasting 18 days, includes survival training in challenging conditions. This change reflects the Army's strategic shift towards enhancing security cooperation in the Western Hemisphere.

Iran threatens to disrupt the Strait of Hormuz as the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group arrives in the Middle East. The strait, crucial for global oil transit, is at risk from Iranian small-boat swarms and missile threats. While Iran may attempt a short-term closure to exert leverage, U.S. naval forces are prepared to ensure the strait remains open, making sustained blockage unlikely.

The U.S. Air Force established the Point Defense Battle Lab at Grand Forks Air Force Base to counter small-drone threats. The initiative, supported by the 184th Wing of the Kansas Air National Guard, aims to develop tactics and technology for maintaining air superiority over unmanned aircraft systems. This effort reflects a shift from defensive to offensive strategies in protecting U.S. military installations from drone intrusions.

The U.S. Air Force established the Point Defense Battle Lab at Grand Forks Air Force Base to counter small-drone threats. The 319th Reconnaissance Wing will lead the initiative, supported by the 184th Wing of the Kansas Air National Guard. The lab will develop tactics and evaluate technology to maintain air superiority over unmanned aircraft systems. Unauthorized drone flights near military installations are now classified as threats.

The Swedish Navy's Gotland-class submarine achieved multiple mock kills against the USS Ronald Reagan during exercises in 2005, highlighting the vulnerability of surface fleets to stealthy submarines. In December 2025, Pakistan launched its fourth Hangor-class submarine, PNS Ghazi, as part of its expanding undersea fleet. Western navies are responding to the undersea threat by improving detection capabilities and integrating advanced technologies.