Analysis & Reports
AI-assisted analysis of military-related information from public sources
US forces launch strikes on ISIS in Syria in retaliation for the death of 2 soldiers
US forces have launched strikes on ISIS in Syria as a response to the death of two soldiers.
US launches operation to ‘eliminate’ ISIS fighters in Syria: Hegseth
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.
US military to stop shooting pigs and goats for medic training
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.
To foster Middle East peace and prosperity, help Kurdistan fend off extremists
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.
Marines moving to gender-neutral Physical Fitness Test for combat jobs
The U.S. Marine Corps is implementing a gender-neutral Physical Fitness Test for combat roles, aiming to establish equal standards for all personnel.
The D Brief: Europe pledges aid to Kyiv; Dems seek boat-strike docs; Navy’s next frigate; Conflicts to watch; And a bit more.
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.
Breaking Defense’s 5 most-clicked stories of 2025
The report analyzes the most significant military-related news stories of 2025, highlighting key developments in defense policy, military operations, and international relations.
Jumpmaster who saved paratrooper breaks down viral video
A jumpmaster explains the events surrounding a viral video where he saved a paratrooper during a jump.
Pentagon will cough up summaries of three years of safety investigations, per NDAA
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.
Special operators seek larger ranges for electronic warfare and drone development and training
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.
