Analysis & Reports

U.S. and Russian military aircraft will appear together at the El Alamein International Airshow on September 8, 2026, showcasing their capabilities. The U.S. Air Force is sending various aircraft, including C-130 and F-16 models, while Russia will display its Su-57E stealth fighter. This event emphasizes the longstanding defense relationship between the U.S. and Egypt, as well as Egypt's balancing act in maintaining ties with both nations.

The NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) has established the Innovation and Readiness Support Partnership (IRSP) with 14 nations to enhance military readiness and innovation. This initiative reflects a commitment to multinational defense cooperation in Europe.

Russia's state arms exporter, Rosoboronexport, announced new export contracts for the Su-57E stealth fighter, with deliveries expected to begin in 2026. The Su-57E will be showcased at the El Alamein International Airshow in Egypt from September 8 to 10, 2024, alongside two new weapons systems. The CEO of Rosoboronexport claimed increased global interest in Russian aircraft due to their combat performance, despite a lack of specific combat data to support this assertion.

L3Harris Technologies completed the first 35 units of the Viper Shield electronic warfare system for F-16 fighter jets, marking the start of full production. Eight allied nations, including Bahrain, Bulgaria, and Poland, have ordered a total of 233 units. The system is designed to protect F-16s from radar-guided missiles and can be mounted inside the aircraft or carried as an external pod. Peru has also selected the system for its new F-16 Block 70 jets.

The August 1st Air Demonstration Team of the Chinese Air Force has participated in numerous international airshows from 2013 to 2026, including events in Moscow, Malaysia, and the UAE. The team showcased advanced aircraft like the Y-20 and J-10C, demonstrating China's growing military capabilities and fostering international military relations. This participation reflects China's strategic intent to enhance its global military presence and share technological advancements.

The Chinese Air Force is sending multiple aircraft, including fighter jets and helicopters, to participate in the second Egypt Airshow from September 8-10, 2024, at Alamein, Egypt. This event aims to enhance military cooperation and trust between China and Egypt, marking the second participation of Chinese military aircraft in this airshow. The diverse aircraft lineup reflects China's growing military capabilities and commitment to international military exchanges.

The Chinese Air Force is sending multiple types of military aircraft, including fighter jets and helicopters, to participate in the second Egypt Airshow at Alamein International Airport from September 8 to 10. This marks the second time China has sent military aircraft to this event, aimed at strengthening military cooperation and friendly relations between the two nations.

The Jama'at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM) is expanding its influence over gold mining operations in the Sahel, particularly in Burkina Faso, and is threatening neighboring countries like Ghana and Senegal. In 2026, JNIM is not only controlling mining areas but also extracting resources from local miners, establishing a system of taxation and control. This evolving situation poses significant risks to regional security as jihadist groups adapt their strategies to maintain their presence and influence.

Marie DuboisSat Sep 05 2026Loading...

China is developing the H-20 stealth bomber, which has a range of 10,000 kilometers and can carry nuclear weapons. However, the People's Liberation Army (PLA) relies on existing missile systems, such as the DF-26, to target US military bases in the Western Pacific. The H-20 is seen as a redundant capability, and China faces technical challenges in its development.

President Trump stated that the U.S. possesses virtually unlimited amounts of ammunition and will soon resume munitions sales to allies. He criticized reports of depleted stockpiles amid ongoing military operations in Iran. Trump also highlighted the substantial military aid provided to Ukraine and NATO, asserting that Europe would repay the U.S. for this support. The statements were made in a Truth Social post on September 3, 2025.

The U.S. Air Force is planning to purchase 187 F-47s to enhance air superiority in potential conflict with the People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF), which has at least 300 J-20s. The report emphasizes the need for protecting high-value airborne assets (HVAA) and suggests that Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCAs) could play a crucial role in this strategy. Failure to adapt could result in a loss of air superiority for the U.S. in the Western Pacific.

Rostec is marketing the Bizon counter-drone system to Egypt, designed to engage small aerial targets with 7.62mm PKT machine guns. The system operates independently using its own radar and can integrate with external detection assets. This follows Egypt's previous acquisition of Russian counter-drone technology, indicating ongoing military cooperation between the two nations.

The U.S. Navy is exploring foreign frigate designs from Japan, South Korea, and Turkey due to delays in domestic shipbuilding. The Constellation-class frigate program has encountered significant cost overruns and delivery delays, prompting the Navy to seek faster solutions. With China's shipbuilding capabilities expanding rapidly, the U.S. faces a pressing need for effective escort vessels in the Western Pacific.

Marcus ChenWed Sep 02 2026Loading...

On September 1, 2026, a national security conference took place in Mogadishu, focusing on the transition from AUSSOM and the coordination of security efforts. Somali intelligence reported the killing of a significant Al-Shabaab intelligence leader in Jilib, highlighting ongoing military operations. The conference addressed critical issues such as political oversight and funding for security institutions, indicating the fragile state of security in Somalia as the country prepares to take on more responsibilities.

Marie DuboisWed Sep 02 2026Loading...

Governor Babagana Zulum suspended local village chiefs in Mallam-Fatori, Borno, highlighting the fragility of civil return in 2026. He inspected damaged infrastructure and emphasized the need for local governance alongside military presence to ensure stability. The 68th Battalion remains active in the area, but the lack of local leadership raises security concerns as displaced populations begin to return.

Marie DuboisTue Sep 01 2026Loading...

Nigerien soldiers engaged in a mutiny at Base 101 in Niamey on August 28-29, 2026, taking hostages and attempting to seize key government locations. The mutiny was met with support from the Africa Corps and Algerian military, highlighting Niger's reliance on foreign assistance amid internal strife. The situation reflects a deteriorating security environment and challenges to the current military regime's authority.

Marie DuboisTue Sep 01 2026Loading...

Mutinous soldiers attempted to seize control of Niamey's Diori Hamani airport and the presidential perimeter on August 29, 2023. Algeria deployed four Su-30 aircraft, an Il-76 transport, and an Il-78 refueling aircraft to support Niger against destabilization attempts. The Africa Corps, a Russian force, intervened to assist in countering the mutiny, highlighting the Nigerien military's reliance on foreign support amid internal divisions.

Marie DuboisMon Aug 31 2026Loading...

Gulf states, including Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Qatar, are investing in alternative routes to the Strait of Hormuz due to security concerns. Traffic through the strait has significantly decreased, prompting these nations to enhance their logistical capabilities and diversify their export routes. This shift indicates a lack of confidence in the security of traditional maritime pathways, as military threats persist in the region.

Ahmed Al-RashidSun Aug 30 2026Loading...

On August 29, 2026, Base 101 in Niamey was attacked for the third time in eight months, with gunfire and explosions reported near Diori Hamani International Airport and the presidential area. The Nigerien military claimed to have regained control, but the repeated attacks raise concerns about the security of critical infrastructure in the capital. This incident reflects a significant shift in the operational environment, indicating that Niamey is becoming a contested area rather than a secure rear base.

Marie DuboisSat Aug 29 2026Loading...

Belgium's Vice Prime Minister Maxime Prévot visited Ouagadougou on August 28, 2023, to re-establish diplomatic relations with Burkina Faso after a two-year political rupture. The visit aims to foster cooperation amidst ongoing security challenges in the Sahel region, acknowledging the importance of dialogue with local regimes. This engagement reflects Belgium's strategic interest in maintaining a presence in the region despite the complexities of international relations.

Marie DuboisFri Aug 28 2026Loading...