Analysis & Reports

The report outlines significant developments in air warfare for 2025, highlighting advancements in the US Air Force, challenges posed by China, leadership changes, and ongoing programs like the F-35 and Sentinel ICBM.

U.S. forces conducted a significant military operation in central Syria, striking over 70 ISIS targets in retaliation for a recent attack that resulted in the deaths of three U.S. personnel. The operation involved the use of over 100 precision munitions and was supported by Jordanian fighter jets.

Sweden is accelerating the integration of Taurus missiles with its Gripen aircraft, enabling deep-strike capabilities earlier than expected. This development represents a significant shift in Sweden's military strategy, moving towards offensive operations.

The Pentagon's Joint Interagency Task Force 401 is planning to enhance counter-drone capabilities by sharing data with the Golden Dome missile defense project, focusing on larger drones classified as Group 3. This initiative aims to integrate counter-UAS efforts across military branches and improve defenses against drone threats, particularly in light of increasing drone activity along the U.S.-Mexico border.

A California Air Guard team successfully executed a high-risk night rescue from a fog-covered cruise ship, demonstrating their operational capabilities in challenging conditions.

US forces have successfully seized an oil tanker in the Caribbean, indicating a military operation related to maritime security.

US forces are returning to Ecuador for a short-term counter-drug mission.

Jordan confirmed that its air force joined U.S. military strikes against Islamic State targets in Syria, responding to the killing of three U.S. citizens. The operation aimed to eliminate ISIS fighters and prevent threats to regional security. U.S. Central Command reported over 70 targets were struck in central Syria, with support from Jordanian fighter aircraft.

US forces have launched strikes on ISIS in Syria as a response to the death of two soldiers.

The U.S. has launched an operation to eliminate ISIS fighters and infrastructure in Syria following the deaths of three U.S. citizens in an attack attributed to ISIS. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced the operation, emphasizing it as a declaration of vengeance. Airstrikes have targeted ISIS positions in Deir ez-Zor and Raqqa provinces, utilizing F-15 jets, A-10 aircraft, and Apache helicopters. President Trump has promised serious retaliation for the attack on U.S. personnel.

The U.S. military is ending the practice of using live animals for medic training, opting for advanced simulation technology instead. This decision is part of the annual defense bill and aims to reduce animal suffering while maintaining effective training for medics. The change has been supported by animal rights advocates and reflects a broader shift towards humane training methods.

On November 26, extremist militias launched drones and rockets at the Khor Mor gas field in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, threatening the democratic values of the Kurdish people. The U.S. has supported Kurdistan with significant investments and military cooperation, and there is a call for further action to protect against these extremist attacks.

The U.S. Marine Corps is implementing a gender-neutral Physical Fitness Test for combat roles, aiming to establish equal standards for all personnel.

European leaders have pledged significant financial and military aid to Ukraine amidst ongoing conflict with Russia, while the U.S. military continues its operations against drug trafficking in Latin America. Additionally, Russian border guards tested Estonian defenses by crossing into their territory.

The report analyzes the most significant military-related news stories of 2025, highlighting key developments in defense policy, military operations, and international relations.

A jumpmaster explains the events surrounding a viral video where he saved a paratrooper during a jump.

The Pentagon is mandated to release summaries of internal safety investigations spanning nearly three years due to increasing military aviation mishaps, as stipulated in the 2026 National Defense Authorization Act. This move aims to enhance transparency and accountability following several high-profile incidents.

U.S. special warfare trainers are requesting expanded areas for jamming cellular and GPS signals to enhance training in electronic warfare and drone operations, reflecting the increasing importance of these capabilities in modern warfare, particularly as observed in Ukraine.