Analysis & Reports

NATO launched Operation Arctic Sentry on February 11, 2026, to enhance its military presence in the Arctic amid rising tensions over Greenland. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen highlighted the unacceptable pressure on Greenland during the Munich Security Conference. Sweden will contribute Gripen fighter jets and Arctic rangers to the operation, which aims to coordinate military exercises and surveillance in the region. The operation reflects NATO's response to both Russian militarization and China's growing influence in the Arctic.

The U.S. Navy conducted a SINKEX exercise in June 2024, sinking the ex-USS Cleveland 40 miles from land in the North Pacific Ocean. This exercise utilized Precision Strike Missiles for the first time against a vessel, allowing naval forces to gather data on ship durability and weapon performance. The Cleveland, which served for over 44 years, was decommissioned prior to the exercise.

Jama'at Nusrat al-Islam wal Muslimin (JNIM) has conducted 69 drone attacks in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Togo since early 2023, utilizing modified commercial drones to drop improvised explosive devices (IEDs). The Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) and Wilayat Sahel have also engaged in similar operations across Nigeria, Cameroon, Niger, and Chad. This marks a significant evolution in asymmetric warfare tactics in the Sahel region, with jihadist groups coordinating their efforts and sharing operational knowledge.

Marie DuboisSat Feb 14 2026Loading...

The USS Jimmy Carter (SSN-23), a modified Seawolf-class submarine, is actively conducting covert missions in the Pacific Ocean. Commissioned in 2005, it features advanced capabilities for intelligence gathering and special operations, including a unique multi-mission platform. The submarine recently completed major maintenance and modernization, enhancing its operational effectiveness.

The Dalian Maritime Safety Administration issued a navigation warning regarding military operations in the Bohai Strait and northern Yellow Sea from February 15 at 16:00 to March 1 at 16:00. Entry into the specified maritime areas is prohibited during this period.

Chinese Coast Guard vessels are conducting patrols and celebrating the Spring Festival around Diaoyu Island, Huangyan Island, and other reefs. The vessels are decorated and personnel are sending New Year greetings, demonstrating China's maritime presence in these contested areas. Despite rough sea conditions, the Coast Guard maintains its patrols to assert sovereignty during this festive period.

The U.S. Air Force deployed 48 F-35A Lightning IIs to Misawa Air Base in Japan, raising concerns about their vulnerability to Chinese missile strikes. With a mission-capable rate of only 50-55%, operational availability is limited to 24-26 aircraft. The concentration of these high-value assets within range of Chinese ballistic missiles presents significant operational risks, especially given the slow production rate of replacement aircraft. This deployment signals U.S. commitment to the region but raises questions about the credibility of deterrence strategies.

Tanaka TakashiSat Feb 14 2026Loading...

Ukrainian drone operators destroyed two NATO battalions during a military exercise in Estonia last May, revealing critical operational flaws in NATO's approach. The exercise demonstrated the effectiveness of Ukraine's Delta battlefield-management system, which coordinated drone strikes that eliminated numerous armored vehicles. NATO forces struggled with concealment and suffered significant losses, underscoring a gap in drone capabilities compared to Ukraine.

Alexandra ReevesSat Feb 14 2026Loading...

Two J-16 fighter jets from the People's Liberation Army Air Force conducted air defense missions in the South China Sea during the Spring Festival holiday. Pilots were on high alert, ready to respond to unidentified aerial threats, demonstrating the operational readiness of the air force. The entire team and systems were prepared for rapid deployment and effective response.

A border defense company from the Shannan Military District conducted armed patrols in the treacherous mountainous region of Tibet before the Spring Festival of 2026. The patrol involved 14 soldiers, who face numerous dangers, including steep cliffs and landslides. The soldiers commemorate their fallen comrades along the patrol route, emphasizing the risks involved in their mission.

Carrier-based helicopter units conduct search and rescue operations for downed pilots on aircraft carriers, maintaining 24/7 readiness. These helicopters, such as the Z-9, are crucial for ensuring pilot safety, especially during nighttime missions. The operations are complex due to environmental conditions, requiring precise coordination to rescue pilots from cold waters.

The joint law enforcement operation concluded successfully on February 13, involving Chinese law enforcement units and counterparts from Laos, Myanmar, and Thailand. The operation lasted five days, covering over 700 kilometers, and included inspections of 50 vessels and 200 individuals in high-risk areas of the Mekong River. A meeting was also held to strengthen cooperation against crime in the region.

The Navy of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) conducted naval training exercises in the East China Sea, deploying multiple vessels, including the 075 amphibious assault ship Guangxi, before the Spring Festival in 2026. Personnel engaged in aircraft takeoff and landing training, emphasizing readiness for real combat scenarios. This operation reflects the PLA's commitment to maintaining operational capabilities during national holidays.

A U.S. Marine Corps sergeant fell from the USS Iwo Jima in the Caribbean Sea on February 7 and was later declared dead after a search operation. On February 11, two U.S. Navy vessels collided during a refueling operation, injuring two sailors. These incidents are part of a larger U.S. military deployment in the region to support anti-drug operations.

The U.S. Navy deployed the USS Ford aircraft carrier strike group to the Middle East on October 13, 2023, to join the USS Lincoln, enhancing military pressure on Iran. This move aims to strengthen U.S. negotiating leverage amid ongoing discussions. Despite previous operational issues, the USS Ford is now considered ready for major operations, with the combined carrier presence allowing for over 120 aircraft to be deployed in the region.

On February 13, the People's Liberation Army Air Force successfully locked onto a foreign stealth aircraft at a distance of 800 meters using a J-16 fighter jet. This operation highlights the effectiveness of China's multi-layered anti-stealth defense system, which integrates ground-based and airborne radar support. The incident raises questions about the challenges of detecting stealth aircraft at greater distances and the operational costs involved in such military engagements.

Li MinghuiSat Feb 14 2026Loading...

The Netherlands will deploy the amphibious transport ship 'John Dewitt' to Norway for the 'Cold Response' military exercise from March 9 to 20, 2023. This exercise involves approximately 25,000 military personnel from 14 NATO countries and is part of the broader 'Arctic Sentinel' operation aimed at strengthening NATO's presence in the Arctic region.

A group of young soldiers from the People's Liberation Army Navy is currently serving on the Hainan ship, demonstrating loyalty and bravery. They are characterized as passionate youth committed to their military duties, embodying the ship's motto of loyalty and fearlessness.

On February 13, U.S. Southern Command conducted a lethal strike against a drug trafficking vessel in the Caribbean Sea, resulting in the deaths of three drug traffickers. This operation is part of a broader campaign against drug trafficking in the region, which has seen multiple strikes since September 2022. No U.S. personnel were injured during the operation.

Russian forces have taken control of four villages in Ukraine, including Chuhunivka and Sydorivka, between February 7 and 13, 2023. They conducted drone strikes on Odesa, resulting in one civilian death and six injuries, while also damaging port infrastructure. Additionally, Russian air defense intercepted several Ukrainian missiles and drones during this period.