Analysis & Reports

Mali and Algeria reopened their airspace after 15 months, while JNIM and FLA launched coordinated attacks on Anéfis and surrounding areas in April 2025. The control of Anéfis is critical for logistics between Kidal and Gao, and the situation has led to increased human rights abuses in the region. The Malian army faces significant challenges from these armed groups.

Marie DuboisTue Jul 14 2026Loading...

On July 5-7, 2026, JNIM and FLA insurgents launched coordinated attacks on multiple Malian military installations from Gao to Sévaré, with significant fighting reported near Anefis. Malian forces, supported by Russian paramilitaries from Africa Corps, faced ambushes and logistical challenges, leading to losses in reinforcements. The alliance between JNIM and FLA poses a new threat to the Malian military, complicating their operational capabilities in the region.

Marie DuboisMon Jul 13 2026Loading...

On July 9, 2026, Russia announced plans to strengthen military cooperation with the Sahel Alliance (AES) amid ongoing jihadist attacks in Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso. This cooperation aims to enhance military capabilities, including the provision of drones and electronic warfare systems. The AES faces challenges in maintaining security and effective military operations against insurgent threats in the region.

Marie DuboisMon Jul 13 2026Loading...

MAURIC partnered with Couach to deliver 24 coastal surveillance patrol vessels for the Maritime Gendarmerie, with the contract awarded on 29 June 2026. The first unit is expected in 2029, and five vessels will be deployed overseas in French Guiana, Mayotte, and New Caledonia. These vessels will support maritime policing and environmental protection missions.

Iranian forces intercepted a hostile drone at Abbas Port and attacked U.S. military bases in Kuwait, destroying multiple assets. Jordanian forces intercepted four Iranian missiles entering their airspace. In response to U.S. strikes, the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps targeted U.S. facilities in Bahrain and Kuwait, while U.S. Central Command conducted airstrikes on Iranian positions.

On July 9, 2026, a Russian convoy transporting Malian soldiers and Russian paramilitaries was ambushed near Tabankort, Mali. The FLA claims control of Anéfis, while Russian forces remain in the main camp. Coordinated attacks by the FLA and JNIM targeted several positions, indicating a serious military challenge for the Malian government. Reports also mention the destruction of military vehicles in ambushes against reinforcements.

Marie DuboisSun Jul 12 2026Loading...

Boko Haram conducted a kidnapping operation in Oyo, Nigeria, resulting in the release of 46 hostages after 56 days. The Nigerian Army, Police, and Department of State Services executed a successful rescue operation, arresting 8 kidnappers. This incident highlights a strategic vulnerability in a region not typically associated with Boko Haram's activities, as over 40 other children remain captives in Borno.

Marie DuboisSat Jul 11 2026Loading...

ISSP launched attacks on military positions in In-Ates and Banibangou, Niger, on June 17, 2026, resulting in heavy losses for Nigerien forces. JNIM attempted an incursion at Niamey's airport the following day. On June 30, JNIM conducted further attacks in Makalondi, Torodi, and Diagourou, alongside operations in Burkina Faso, indicating a coordinated strategy between the two jihadist groups. The situation highlights the escalating conflict in the Tillabéri region.

Marie DuboisFri Jul 10 2026Loading...

MAURIC partnered with Couach to construct 24 coastal surveillance patrol vessels for the Maritime Gendarmerie, with the first unit expected by 2029. The contract was awarded on 29 June 2026, and five vessels will be deployed overseas in French Guiana, Mayotte, and New Caledonia. The vessels will support maritime policing, counter-trafficking, and search and rescue missions.

The K9 Thunder howitzer, produced by South Korea's Hanwha Aerospace, has become the most exported tracked self-propelled howitzer globally, outselling competitors like the American M109 Paladin and German PzH 2000. Its success is attributed to rapid delivery, technology transfer, competitive pricing, and a self-sufficient production model. Eleven nations, including Poland and India, have adopted the K9, which is designed for quick firing and mobility, making it a preferred choice in the defense market.

Armed groups attacked the MINUSCA base in Am-Dafock on June 30, 2026, injuring three Zambian peacekeepers. Over 16,000 displaced persons have gathered near the base, complicating humanitarian efforts. The attackers are reportedly affiliated with the FPRC and MDRPC, with possible involvement from RSF. This incident raises concerns about local security and the effectiveness of peace agreements in the region.

Marie DuboisWed Jul 08 2026Loading...

The Thales–Leonardo Consortium has been awarded a contract by NATO to supply six deployable headquarters for the Allied Special Operations Forces Command (SOFCOM). This contract enhances NATO's logistical capabilities in supporting special operations forces.

Egypt inaugurated the Octagon, a strategic military headquarters, on July 4, 2023, in the New Administrative Capital. The complex spans 22,000 acres and aims to centralize military command and crisis management to address regional threats. It is designed to improve data sharing and operational efficiency for the Egyptian Armed Forces.

Marie DuboisMon Jul 06 2026Loading...

Thales and Leonardo are delivering a next-generation secure deployable communication and information system for NATO Special Operations Forces Command (SOFCOM) across Europe. This initiative includes six deployable Head Quarters (HQs) and aims to enhance operational effectiveness with advanced capabilities such as real-time Full Motion Video sharing. The project is part of a larger NATO program to strengthen resilience in modern warfare, leveraging European industrial assets and expertise.

Rheinmetall Mobile Systeme GmbH signed a contract in June 2026 to supply seven mobile field hospitals to Morocco, with one designated for the Ministry of Defence and six for the Ministry of the Interior. The delivery is scheduled between 2027 and 2028, and the hospitals are designed for high mobility and self-sufficiency in medical care. This project is viewed as a significant contribution to humanitarian efforts in the region.

Rheinmetall Mobile Systeme GmbH signed a contract in June 2026 to supply seven mobile field hospitals to Morocco, with one designated for the Ministry of Defence and six for the Ministry of the Interior. The delivery is scheduled between 2027 and 2028, emphasizing the hospitals' mobility and self-sufficiency in medical care. This project is seen as a significant contribution to both military and humanitarian efforts in the region.

Between April 25 and June 9, 2026, 73 civilians were killed in Mali due to conflicts involving JNIM, FLA, and Africa Corps. Notable incidents occurred in Zambougou, Gao, and Kidal, where military operations targeted civilian populations. The JNIM has intensified attacks on supply routes, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis and threatening the stability of Bamako and surrounding areas.

Marie DuboisFri Jul 03 2026Loading...

The Unified Force of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) is deploying 6,000 troops to seek a route out of the Sahel trap, focusing on military coordination among Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger. In July 2026, the AES aims to establish a command chain for cross-border operations, responding to recent jihadist attacks on strategic locations. The operation Yereko 2 has shown minimal coordination capabilities, highlighting the challenges faced by the AES in the region.

Marie DuboisThu Jul 02 2026Loading...

JNIM and FLA are conducting coordinated attacks to encircle Bamako in 2026, targeting supply routes and civilian vehicles. This has created a siege-like situation, disrupting fuel supplies and military logistics. The attacks have affected multiple locations, including Gao, Kidal, and Mopti, and have led to significant civilian impacts.

Marie DuboisThu Jul 02 2026Loading...

Iran declared the Strait of Hormuz fully open to commercial shipping on June 30, 2023, following a period of heightened tensions. Shipping activity resumed with 24 vessels passing through the strait on June 29. Iranian officials emphasized that the temporary 'free passage' arrangement does not compromise Iran's sovereignty. The ongoing geopolitical tensions continue to affect global shipping and energy markets.