Analysis & Reports

Russian forces struck Ukrainian port facilities on July 25, 2023, targeting Odesa, Chornomorsk, and Izmail. Concurrently, Ukrainian airstrikes in Zaporizhzhia resulted in at least 14 civilian deaths and over 30 injuries. In Belgorod, Ukrainian forces attacked 16 towns, leading to 2 deaths and 13 injuries. The conflict continues to escalate with significant civilian impacts.

On July 25, 2023, the Sudanese Armed Forces and Darfur local armed forces regained control of five strategic locations in North Kordofan from the Rapid Support Forces. The joint forces killed multiple personnel from the Rapid Support Forces and destroyed 73 combat vehicles. The operation is ongoing, with reinforcements arriving to ensure the security of main roads and facilitate humanitarian aid.

Street protests erupted across Ukraine in July 2023 following President Zelenskyy's firing of defense minister Mykhailo Fedorov, with 72% of the public disapproving of the decision. The protests reflect deep concerns over military leadership and corruption, as Fedorov's reforms had been pivotal in enhancing Ukraine's defense capabilities. The situation highlights a rift within the Ukrainian leadership amid ongoing conflict with Russia.

On July 23, President Trump nominated Lt. Gen. Kevin D. Admiral to command U.S. Army Europe-Africa and NATO Allied Land Command in Germany, replacing Gen. Christopher Donahue. Admiral's appointment as a three-star officer for a role that has recently been four-star raises concerns about U.S. commitment to NATO, especially amid ongoing tensions with Russia. He will inherit the Eastern Flank Deterrence Initiative, aimed at improving NATO's land force integration and readiness against potential threats.

Alexandra ReevesSat Jul 25 2026Loading...

In July 2026, Russian forces launched over 25 ballistic missiles and 125 drones against Ukraine, exceeding their monthly production capacity. Despite the extensive use of these weapons, the operations have not achieved a decisive breakthrough on the front lines. Ukrainian forces reported successful interceptions of many of these attacks, while also conducting strikes on Russian logistics and military targets.

Dmitri VolkovSat Jul 25 2026Loading...

Elistair and Exail integrated the Khronos tethered drone with the DriX unmanned surface vessel to enhance maritime surveillance. This system provides persistent aerial monitoring for coastal security and port protection, operating for up to 24 hours while streaming live video. The drone's capabilities extend surveillance beyond traditional surface sensors, allowing for remote operation from shore.

The U.S. Space Development Agency awarded General Dynamics Mission Systems a $400 million contract to develop the ground segment for missile-tracking satellites as part of the Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture. This initiative aims to enhance missile defense capabilities by providing near-instant warning of missile launches globally. The contract supports the development of 72 Tracking Layer satellites, with the first expected to launch by 2029, and completion of the ground systems by September 30, 2030.

Lockheed Martin received a $23 million contract from the U.S. Navy to establish maintenance depots for F-35A jets in Finland, Switzerland, and South Korea. This initiative aims to enhance the countries' capabilities to maintain their stealth fighters domestically, reducing reliance on U.S. facilities. The work is expected to be completed by December 2028, with significant portions of the work occurring in Fort Worth, Texas, and Cheongju, South Korea.

Romanian Air Force shot down a second drone in its airspace on Saturday morning, following a similar incident the previous day. The first drone was intercepted near Padina in Buzău County, while the second was downed 10 km west of Sfântu Gheorghe in the Danube Delta. Both incidents involved F-16 fighter jets and mark a significant development in Romania's air defense capabilities against potential threats from Russian drones.

On July 24, 2026, Russian forces launched three Iskander-M ballistic missiles at a defense exhibition in Bucha, Kyiv Oblast, resulting in ten fatalities and approximately one hundred injuries. One missile was intercepted, while two struck the target area. The attack aimed at Ukrainian defense industry representatives, prompting criticism from President Zelensky regarding the event's location near residential buildings.

Dmitri VolkovSat Jul 25 2026Loading...

The Swedish Air Force is enhancing its operational capabilities and readiness for long-term conflict, focusing on multi-domain operations and increased training. Major General Jonas Wikman highlighted the participation in numerous scrambles and the introduction of advanced equipment, including Gripen E fighters and new transport aircraft. Sweden plans to expand its satellite capabilities and improve its air defense strategies in response to regional threats.

The Saudi-led coalition conducted military operations targeting Houthi military objectives related to threats against Red Sea shipping on the 25th. Ports in Yemen, including Hodeidah, Ras Isa, and Salif, remain open and operational, while flights to Yemen are also functioning normally. The coalition emphasized its commitment to protect its interests and assets, warning of a decisive response to any continued Houthi hostilities.

Rapid Support Forces attacked civilians in Bebar, North Kordofan, on July 23-24, 2023, resulting in 15 deaths and 7 injuries. The Sudanese Armed Forces engaged in intense fighting with the attackers, who used approximately 15 combat vehicles. The assault caused panic among local residents, prompting many to flee to Obeid for safety.

Germany held a groundbreaking ceremony for a new powder factory in Aschaffenburg on July 22, 2023. The facility, a subsidiary of Rheinmetall AG, is set to become the largest and most modern powder factory in Europe, increasing Germany's production capacity by six times. This initiative aims to enhance Germany's military sovereignty by reducing reliance on foreign suppliers for ammunition.

Mikhailo Drahapat was appointed as the new commander of the Ukrainian Armed Forces on July 21, 2023, amid significant challenges including troop shortages and the need for reforms. Protests erupted following the dismissal of former Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov, reflecting discontent with military leadership. Drahapat is expected to leverage his experience to address these issues while Ukraine intensifies its military operations against Russian forces.

BAE Systems unveiled its new unmanned combat aircraft, 'King of Thunder', at the Farnborough Airshow on July 22, 2023. The aircraft is set to begin flight testing next year and aims for operational use by 2030. This initiative reflects the UK's strategy to enhance its air power in response to global threats and lessons learned from the Ukraine conflict. The project has attracted significant investment and is designed to operate alongside manned aircraft, potentially costing about one-third of traditional fighter jets.

Martin-Baker and Collins Aerospace are adapting their ejection seat technologies to support the development of unmanned aircraft, as showcased at the Farnborough International Airshow. They are engaging with drone manufacturers to enhance safety and operational capabilities. Despite advancements in unmanned systems, major militaries continue to invest in manned fighter jets, ensuring the need for life-saving technologies remains critical.

Ukrainian drone units have been actively targeting Russian ships and maritime infrastructure in the Black Sea and Sea of Azov, hitting over 180 vessels in recent weeks. This campaign, led by commanders Robert 'Magyar' Brovdi and 'Ray', aims to weaken Russian control over Crimea and disrupt their logistics. The attacks have reportedly increased to six vessels targeted daily since July, coinciding with intensified Russian strikes on Ukrainian ports.

The Pentagon nominated Lt. Gen. Kevin D. Admiral to command U.S. Army Europe and Africa, succeeding Gen. Christopher Donahue, who stepped down unexpectedly. Admiral, currently the commander of III Corps at Fort Hood, Texas, would also lead NATO’s Allied Land Command if confirmed. Maj. Gen. Christopher Norrie is currently acting commander following Donahue's departure.

The Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) announced Canada joining as an observer during the Farnborough International Airshow, with discussions on potential new partners. The UK committed £8.6 billion to the program, which aims for a 2035 service entry date. The Brontanax Combat Collaborative Aircraft was unveiled, supporting the UK's sixth-generation air force strategy.