Analysis & Reports

Minnesota authorities activated the National Guard to assist in Minneapolis following the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti by federal agents during an immigration enforcement operation. Pretti, a legal gun owner, was shot after a confrontation with ICE agents. Protests erupted in response, highlighting tensions surrounding federal immigration actions in the state.

Leonardo conducted a demonstration of the FITS4TOP project on January 26, 2026, in Venegono Superiore, Italy, showcasing advanced military pilot training capabilities. The project, co-funded by the EU, integrates live, virtual, and constructive training systems with the M-346 advanced jet trainer. It involves six aerospace partners from Italy, France, Denmark, and Romania, aiming to enhance training for future combat pilots in complex environments.

The U.S. military conducted operations in Venezuela on January 3, 2023, resulting in at least 100 casualties. President Trump stated that a new weapon, referred to as a 'mind disruptor', was used during these operations. Eyewitnesses described severe physical reactions, including nosebleeds and loss of consciousness. Russian military experts have criticized these claims as mere political posturing.

The USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier entered the Indian Ocean on January 26 in response to increasing threats from Iran. This deployment is part of a broader U.S. military buildup in the region, which includes additional missile defense systems. Reports indicate that Iran may be preparing for military action, with its Supreme Leader reportedly in hiding.

On January 26, 2026, three Chinese law enforcement boats launched from Xishuangbanna, Yunnan, as part of the 161st joint patrol and law enforcement operation on the Mekong River. This operation involved two Laotian and one Myanmar law enforcement boats, focusing on coordinated patrols to combat illegal activities in the region. A command meeting was held prior to the operation to align strategies among the participating nations.

The A-10 Warthog named 'Diddy Kong' is currently engaged in combat operations against ISIS in the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility. This aircraft, part of the 75th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron, is involved in Operation Hawkeye Strike, which includes airstrikes in Syria. The A-10 is equipped with a GAU-8 Avenger 30 mm gun and has been actively participating in recent military campaigns.

General George S. Patton commanded U.S. forces in North Africa and Sicily during World War II, overcoming personal and professional challenges. He was removed from D-Day command after slapping soldiers suffering from shell shock but later led the 3rd Army to significant victories, including the relief of Bastogne and the capture of Frankfurt in 1945. His leadership style and controversial actions have been widely discussed in military history.

The Y-20 transport aircraft, known as 'Fat Girl', has been operational since its first flight on January 26, 2013, significantly enhancing the People's Liberation Army Air Force's strategic airlift capabilities. It has participated in various military operations, including humanitarian missions and international airshows, showcasing its versatility and importance in modern military logistics. The Y-20 continues to evolve, with recent developments including the introduction of domestic engines and new variants.

Iran threatened to close the Strait of Hormuz in January 2026, aiming to disrupt shipping and spike global oil prices. While lacking the conventional naval strength for a sustained closure, Iran possesses asymmetric capabilities such as naval mines and anti-ship missiles. This threat serves as a coercive measure against perceived existential threats, likely prompting a significant U.S. military response and international coalition efforts to ensure maritime security.

The U.S. military is increasing its presence in the Middle East, deploying at least one aircraft carrier, the Abraham Lincoln. Houthi forces have issued threats to attack vessels in the Red Sea, likely in support of Iran. This escalation follows warnings from Iran that any attacks would be considered a full-scale war.

Swedish Armed Forces detected two Russian Su-35S fighter jets and one Tu-22M3 bomber over the Baltic Sea on January 23. In response, Swedish Air Force quick reaction alert aircraft were scrambled to shadow the Russian jets, ensuring their movements were monitored. The incident occurred in international airspace, with no violations reported, as part of Sweden's routine NATO air policing efforts.

The Southern Theater Command Navy conducted multi-task naval training exercises in the South China Sea, successfully engaging and sinking an enemy drone. Personnel responded swiftly to a fire on a transport ship during the exercise, demonstrating effective coordination and operational readiness. The training aimed to enhance the overall capabilities of the naval forces involved.

During a naval training exercise, the Taiyuan Ship of the People's Liberation Army Navy successfully drove away a foreign military vessel that approached at high speed with apparent provocation. The crew quickly assessed the situation and executed their response strategy effectively. Since its commissioning, the Taiyuan Ship has completed over 30 missions, including escorting operations in the Gulf of Aden.

China conducted live-fire exercises in the Northern Gulf on January 26 from 11:00 to 17:00 and January 27 from 12:00 to 16:00, prohibiting access to the area during these times.

A U.S. military helicopter flight demonstration at Kadena Air Base in Okinawa on April 22, 2025, resulted in the death of a 60-year-old Japanese teacher. The helicopter was only 25 meters from the teacher, far below the mandated safety distance of 182 meters. The teacher sustained critical injuries from the helicopter's rotor wash and died days later. The U.S. military admitted to planning flaws and insufficient oversight during the event, highlighting ongoing safety concerns regarding military operations in Japan.

The U.S. Navy's Iowa-Class battleships, including USS Iowa, USS New Jersey, USS Missouri, and USS Wisconsin, engaged in combat operations during the Korean War from 1950 to 1953. They provided naval gunfire support, bombarded enemy positions, and contributed to significant military actions, including the Battle of Inchon and the Battle of Chosin Reservoir. Their presence served as a deterrent and a demonstration of American military strength in the region.

Israeli Defense Forces conducted a search operation in the Northern Gaza Strip on January 25 to recover the last body of an Israeli hostage. The operation follows information provided by Hamas regarding the location of the body. The IDF estimates the search will take several days. Additionally, two Palestinians were reported killed by Israeli forces in separate incidents during the same timeframe.

The U.S. Navy's Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier strike group has arrived in the Middle East and is conducting operations under U.S. Central Command. The U.S. Air Force announced plans to carry out military exercises in the region for several days, aimed at showcasing the ability to deploy and sustain air combat forces.

The U.S. Space Force activated a new element, Space Force Southern, on January 21, 2025, to focus on Latin America, following its involvement in operations against Venezuela. This unit, operating under U.S. Southern Command from Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, will coordinate space-related activities in the region. It has been operational since December 1, 2025, and played a significant role in the recent operation that captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro.

U.S. Soldiers conducted gunnery exercises with M1A2 Abrams tanks in Grafenwoehr, Germany, as part of Combined Resolve V. The U.S. provided air support while the YPG engaged in ground combat against the Islamic State, resulting in significant Kurdish losses. The report criticizes U.S. foreign policy decisions, including the abandonment of allies in Syria and Afghanistan, which have implications for future military partnerships. It warns that allying with the U.S. may be strategically unwise for smaller nations.