Analysis & Reports
AI-assisted analysis of military-related information from public sources
Russia strengthens the AES in 2026 — Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso seek military depth
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...
Algiers and Bamako reopen the sky in 2026 — Tinzaouaten changes the calculations of the Sahel
On July 11, 2026, Algeria and Mali reopened their airspace for civilian and military flights after a 15-month closure due to a drone incident. This development marks a significant step in restoring diplomatic relations between the two nations, which had been strained following the downing of a Malian drone. The reopening is crucial for military operations and regional security, as it allows for better coordination against armed groups in the Sahel region.
Marie DuboisSun Jul 12 2026Loading...Sources: Egypt Discusses Implementation of Gaza Ceasefire with Hamas
A Hamas delegation discussed the implementation of the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire agreement with Egyptian officials in Cairo on July 9. They confirmed plans to transfer administrative control of Gaza to the Gaza National Administrative Committee and agreed to facilitate peacekeeping efforts. Additionally, a proposal for a pilot area in Rafah was received from a U.S.-initiated 'Peace Committee'.
South Korea’s K9 Thunder Is Outselling America and Germany in Artillery. The Reason Isn’t the Gun.
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.
France’s Dassault Rafale Doesn’t Care One Bit About Stealth or the F-35
The Dassault Rafale has secured over 640 orders by the end of 2024, becoming a preferred choice for countries like Egypt, Qatar, and India. It is marketed as a sovereign purchase, free from American control, appealing to nations seeking operational independence. The aircraft's continuous upgrades further enhance its attractiveness, contrasting with the F-35's market dominance.
Iran Reopens Tehran Sanaa Air Bridge in 2026 as Houthis Threaten Saudi Airports and Red Sea Shipping
Iran reopened the air bridge between Tehran and Sanaa on July 6, 2026, following the arrival of an Iranian civilian flight carrying over 200 individuals. The Houthis issued threats against Saudi airports and maritime interests, asserting their capability to retaliate against any Saudi attempts to intercept flights. This development signifies a strategic military and political maneuver by Iran and the Houthis to enhance their operational presence in the region.
Ahmed Al-RashidTue Jul 07 2026Loading...International Maritime Organization: 44 Seafarers Still Held by Somali Pirates and Others
The International Maritime Organization reported that 44 crew members are being held hostage by Somali pirates and armed groups in Somalia and the Gulf of Aden. The Secretary-General called for urgent international action to secure their release, highlighting the severe humanitarian conditions faced by the hostages. Recent data indicates a rise in piracy incidents in the region, with 24 reported cases in the last three months.
Egypt opens the Octagon in 2026 — 22,000 acres to manage African crises
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...Turkey and European NATO allies draw closer, but tensions remain: Experts
Turkey is enhancing its ties with NATO, contributing over 2000 troops and the TCG Anadolu carrier to defense initiatives. Analysts note that Turkey's military capabilities are increasingly recognized, particularly in the Black Sea and surrounding regions. However, tensions remain due to Turkey's geopolitical interests and its past conflicts with NATO members, particularly regarding defense initiatives and equipment procurement.
China’s Missiles Now Outrange America’s Aircraft Carriers. The U.S. Navy Is Spending Billions to Reverse It
The U.S. Navy is investing billions to enhance the operational range of its aircraft carriers in response to the threat posed by China's long-range missiles. Recent conflicts in the Red Sea and Black Sea have highlighted the vulnerabilities of naval forces, prompting the development of new technologies like the MQ-25 tanker and F/A-XX fighter. While no U.S. aircraft carrier has been sunk, the evolving threat landscape necessitates a reevaluation of naval strategies and capabilities.
AFC/M23 expands its grip in the DRC — 35% of territory gained despite Washington and Doha
AFC/M23 has expanded its control in eastern DRC, gaining 35% more territory as of July 1, 2026, despite international pressure. The group, supported by over 10,000 Rwandan soldiers, aims to establish a federal republic in the region. Their activities include administration and recruitment in occupied areas, indicating a shift from rebellion to a more structured political-military organization.
Marie DuboisThu Jul 02 2026Loading..."After More Than a Hundred Days of Conflict, What Has Changed in the Strait of Hormuz?"
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.
Egypt and Turkey Discuss Implementation of Gaza Ceasefire with Hamas
Egyptian and Turkish intelligence officials met with Hamas leaders in Cairo on June 30, 2023, to discuss the implementation of a ceasefire in Gaza. The talks focused on a U.S.-proposed plan, with Hamas expressing support for the initiative. The discussions also addressed issues related to Hamas's weapon storage and governance in the Gaza Strip, aiming to halt Israeli violations of the ceasefire agreement.
Burkina Faso Breaks with Paris — 2026 Exposes the Washington-Moscow Battle in the Sahel
Burkina Faso formally severed diplomatic relations with France on June 26, 2026, accusing it of neo-colonial ambitions. This decision, led by Captain Ibrahim Traoré, has been in preparation since 2023 and reflects a broader trend of military regimes in the Sahel seeking to negotiate with foreign powers. The junte claims to maintain human and cultural ties with France despite the diplomatic break, which may impact military operations against jihadist groups in the region.
Marie DuboisTue Jun 30 2026Loading...
Polishing the Color of Loyalty on the Peacekeeping Battlefield
Chinese peacekeeping forces conducted various activities on June 29, 2024, to celebrate the 105th anniversary of the Communist Party of China. Events included oath-taking ceremonies and educational sessions across multiple locations, including Juba, South Sudan, and Lebanon. The activities aimed to reaffirm the soldiers' commitment to their missions and loyalty to the Party, with participants expressing their determination to uphold peacekeeping standards.
Washington courts the AES in 2026 — Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso negotiate between Russia and American intelligence
U.S. officials engaged with Mali's government to re-establish intelligence operations amid rising jihadist threats. The U.S. aims to strengthen ties with Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso for security and economic interests, shifting focus from democratic transitions to counter-terrorism. Recent attacks by jihadist groups underscore the urgency of U.S. involvement in the region.
Marie DuboisMon Jun 29 2026Loading...
Nigeria launches its wargaming center 2026 — Abuja wants to think faster than Boko Haram
The Nigerian Army inaugurated a wargaming center in Abuja on June 26, 2023, to enhance military planning against Boko Haram and ISWAP. This center aims to improve coordination across land, maritime, air, cyber, and informational dimensions. Despite claims of neutralizing over 13,000 terrorists, challenges remain in controlling rural areas and ensuring effective military responses. The center is expected to facilitate better strategic assessments and logistical planning for future operations.
Marie DuboisSun Jun 28 2026Loading...M23 and Rwanda before the ICJ — 632 civilians killed in eastern Congo in 2026
In 2026, the M23 and Congolese Armed Forces are engaged in an ongoing conflict in eastern Congo, resulting in 632 civilian casualties documented by the UN in North Kivu and Ituri. The DRC has accused Rwanda of supporting M23 and violating international law, prompting diplomatic actions at the International Court of Justice. Control of key routes remains critical for both military and humanitarian operations.
Marie DuboisSat Jun 27 2026Loading...
The 48th Escort Task Force of Our Navy, the Tangshan Ship, Arrives in Seychelles for a Friendly Visit
The Chinese Navy's Tangshan ship arrived in Victoria, Seychelles on June 26 for a 5-day friendly visit. This visit marks the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Seychelles, featuring activities such as professional exchanges and participation in independence celebrations. Local citizens expressed their welcome for the Chinese Navy's presence.
During the Liaoning Carrier Group's Real Combat Training, It Was Disturbed Multiple Times by Malicious Approaches from Japanese Vessels and Aircraft, Ministry of Defense Responds
The Liaoning aircraft carrier group conducted long-range realistic combat training in the South China Sea and Western Pacific, facing provocations from Japanese naval vessels and aircraft. The Chinese Ministry of Defense condemned these actions, asserting that Japan's behavior is a deliberate provocation. The spokesperson urged Japan to cease its interference with China's normal training activities.
