Analysis & Reports

Iran continues to operate a fleet of approximately 20 Ghadir-class midget submarines, with some unaccounted for, posing a potential threat to commercial and U.S. Navy shipping. The U.S. Navy recently confirmed the destruction of at least one Ghadir-class submarine during a strike on Bandar Abbas Naval Base in July 2026. The Iranian Navy's capabilities include Kilo-class submarines and Ghadir-class submarines, which are based on North Korean designs.

An Iranian F-5 Tiger bombed Camp Buehring in Kuwait during the opening phase of the 2026 U.S.-Iran war. This incident marks the operational use of the F-5E Tiger Fighters, which Iran acquired in the 1970s. The aircraft, capable of reaching Mach 1.6, played a significant role in Iran's air operations, demonstrating their continued relevance in modern conflicts.

Houthi forces attacked the Egyptian cargo ship 'Tehama' in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait on August 11, killing four crew members and injuring ten others during a subsequent strike on rescue teams. This incident marks a significant escalation in Houthi maritime operations, expanding their targeting to any vessel in the area. The blockade has led to a notable decrease in maritime traffic, raising concerns over the safety of commercial shipping in the region.

Ahmed Al-RashidWed Aug 12 2026Loading...

The U.S. Central Command conducted airstrikes in Yemen in April 2025, resulting in 153 civilian deaths and 243 injuries. This marks the first official acknowledgment by the Pentagon of civilian casualties from these operations. The report also reviews 15 other incidents that may have caused civilian harm during the military actions against Houthi forces.

The 49th Escort Task Force of the Chinese Navy departed from Sanya on August 12, heading to the Aden Gulf and Somalia to replace the 48th task force. The fleet consists of three ships, including the Kunming missile destroyer, which is on its first escort mission. The task force is equipped with helicopters and special forces, and has undergone training to address potential risks during the mission.

Israeli Defense Forces mistakenly fired an interception missile at friendly forces in southern Lebanon in the early morning of the 12th. The target was confirmed to be friendly, and no injuries were reported. An investigation into the incident is currently ongoing.

U.S. Central Command conducted airstrikes in Yemen in April 2025, resulting in 153 civilian deaths and 243 injuries. The Pentagon's report to Congress marks the first official acknowledgment of the scale of civilian casualties from these operations. Central Command is also reviewing 15 other incidents that may have led to civilian harm during the conflict with Houthi forces.

U.S. military preparations for a potential invasion of Kharg Island are ongoing, with President Trump considering military options amid stalled negotiations with Iran. Central Command has previously struck military targets on the island, and Iran has reinforced its defenses. Capturing Kharg would significantly impact Iran's oil exports, but logistical challenges remain for U.S. forces.

Iran is negotiating with Oman over the Strait of Hormuz, demanding the U.S. Navy end its blockade and withdraw forces from the Middle East. Traffic in the strait has dropped significantly, with the U.S. redirecting 55 commercial vessels away from Iranian ports. Trump has indicated that the U.S. will seek compensation from Iran for damages caused by its actions. The recent appointment of Mohsen Rezaei as secretary of the Supreme National Security Council may lead to a more aggressive stance from Iran in these negotiations.

China has supplied military technology and weapons to Iran since the 1980s, significantly enhancing Iran's coastal missile capabilities. This includes the provision of HY-2 Silkworm anti-ship missiles and technology for the Noor missile. Iran has developed a robust missile program, enabling it to create an anti-access environment in the Strait of Hormuz and the Persian Gulf, complicating U.S. military operations in the region.

Houthi forces launched strikes using ballistic missiles and drones against Saudi-related military targets in Mocha and Marib Province on November 11. The attacks reportedly hit military personnel and command centers, resulting in numerous casualties, including Saudi personnel. Houthi spokesperson Yahya stated that these strikes were precise and indicated ongoing military operations against Saudi forces.

U.S. Air Force B-1B Lancers conducted airstrikes against Iranian military infrastructure from RAF Fairford, targeting ballistic missile production facilities and command centers. The operation, part of Operation Epic Fury, resulted in significant damage to Iranian capabilities and the elimination of senior Iranian leadership. The B-1B Lancer, capable of carrying a massive payload, played a crucial role in these strikes.

The U.S. Air Force deployed 15 B-1B Lancer bombers to RAF Fairford to conduct airstrikes against Iranian military infrastructure from February to March 2026. These strikes targeted ballistic missile production facilities and command centers, resulting in the deaths of key Iranian leadership figures. The B-1B, capable of carrying a payload of 125,000 pounds, played a crucial role in the operation.

Iran and North Korea have established a cooperative missile relationship since the 1980s, involving technology exchange and joint development of missile systems. This partnership has evolved from simple transactions to a more symbiotic relationship, with Iran developing its own missile capabilities while benefiting from North Korean technology. The Shahab-3 missile, derived from North Korea's Nodong, exemplifies this cooperation, enhancing Iran's military capabilities significantly.

Iran has maintained and upgraded its fleet of M60 tanks, originally purchased in the 1970s, with approximately 150 M60A1s still operational. The Iranian Army continues to modernize these tanks, introducing upgrades like the Soleiman-402, which features enhanced armor and electronic systems. Despite sanctions and historical challenges, Iran's efforts reflect a commitment to preserving its armored capabilities.

U.S. strikes targeted Iranian submarine capabilities in Bandar Abbas on March 19, 2026, following assessments that Iran had 24 mini-submarines. The strikes aimed at degrading Iran's naval infrastructure, which suffered significant losses during the conflict. Despite claims of total destruction, the exact number of surviving Ghadir-class submarines remains unverified, raising concerns about Iran's ongoing naval capabilities.

U.S. Air Force B-52 bombers conducted airstrikes over Iran during Operation Epic Fury after neutralizing Iranian air defenses. Eight B-52s, based in England, utilized their capability to carry 70,000 pounds of munitions, including JDAMs and JASSMs, to strike multiple targets. This operation showcased U.S. air superiority in the region.

Saudi Arabia is preparing a naval and possible land offensive against the Houthis to break their blockade on oil exports. The Houthis declared a maritime embargo on Saudi shipping, leading to escalated fighting across Yemen. Saudi Arabia has also formed the Multinational Maritime Defence Alliance to protect commercial shipping routes. Recent clashes have resulted in multiple casualties, indicating a significant increase in hostilities.

Alexandra ReevesTue Aug 11 2026Loading...

Iran has developed a military playbook that China is likely to emulate to counter the US Air Force and Navy. The ongoing US-Iran conflict of 2026 has highlighted the limitations of US military power, particularly in air operations. This situation raises concerns about US capabilities in a potential conflict with China, which could leverage similar strategies to those used by Iran.

U.S. Air Force A-10 Warthogs are actively hunting Iranian fast-attack watercraft in the Strait of Hormuz and providing air support in Iraq. The campaign has led to the destruction of over 100 Iranian naval vessels. One A-10 was damaged by an Iranian missile but the pilot was rescued. The A-10's high mission capability rate has been crucial in the ongoing operations against Iranian forces.