Analysis & Reports

The Southern Theater Command of the People's Liberation Army conducted routine naval and air patrols in the South China Sea from February 2 to February 6, maintaining high readiness amid rising tensions with the Philippines. This follows Philippine military exercises with external forces near Scarborough Shoal, prompting the PLA to assert its sovereignty and readiness to respond to provocations. Military experts highlight the PLA's strong capabilities in deterring threats in the region.

A suspect with dual Russian-Ukrainian citizenship was arrested in the UAE following the attack on Russian General Vladimir Alekseyev in Moscow on February 6, 2023. Two other suspects have been charged, while a female suspect has fled to Ukraine and is wanted internationally. The incident is characterized as a response from Ukrainian terrorists against the ongoing conflict negotiations.

Multiple explosions were heard in Kyiv, Ukraine, on the 8th, accompanied by the activation of air raid sirens.

On February 7, 2024, a convoy of 19 civilian vehicles was attacked by Islamist fighters on the Gao-Ansongo Road near Kobe, Mali, resulting in 34 deaths and 34 injuries. The convoy, which included Nigerien miners and Malian traders, was under military escort when it came under fire. The Islamic State in the Greater Sahara is suspected of the attack, which underscores the risks posed by military escorts to civilian safety in the region.

Marie DuboisSun Feb 08 2026Loading...

Multi-national Special Operations Forces participated in a submarine insertion exercise with the USS Hawaii (SSN 776) off the coast of Oahu, Hawaii, on July 9, 2018, during RIMPAC 2018. The exercise involved 25,000 personnel, 46 ships, and 5 submarines, showcasing the capabilities of the U.S. Navy's new USS Arizona (SSN-803) equipped with the Virginia Payload Module. This module enhances the submarine's firepower and operational flexibility.

Leopard 2 tanks deployed by the Ukrainian Armed Forces have struggled in combat in Ukraine due to maintenance issues and a lack of combined arms support. Initially, Germany sent 14 Leopard 2 tanks, followed by over 100 more. The tanks' performance has raised concerns about their effectiveness in modern warfare, particularly in the face of Russian defenses and drone attacks.

On February 7, 2026, Russian Armed Forces launched a large-scale strike on Ukraine's energy infrastructure, deploying 450 drones and over 70 missiles targeting thermal power plants and key substations. This operation signifies a return to a strategy of attrition, aiming to disrupt Ukraine's energy supply. However, Ukraine's energy system has adapted, mitigating the long-term effects of these attacks.

Dmitri VolkovSun Feb 08 2026Loading...

The Russian Navy is experiencing a severe crisis, with significant personnel losses and operational failures exposed by the Ukraine conflict. The Black Sea Fleet has retreated from Crimea to Novorossiysk following the sinking of the Moskva and other vessels. Personnel numbers for elite units have drastically decreased, reflecting systemic issues in training and equipment maintenance. Ukrainian forces have effectively targeted and damaged key naval assets, further degrading Russia's maritime capabilities.

Iran maintains its uranium enrichment program despite significant U.S. military presence in the Gulf, including the USS Abraham Lincoln and over 60 aircraft. U.S. forces have been deployed since January 26, 2026, while Iran has taken cautious military actions, including missile deployments and halting high-level enrichment. Diplomatic efforts are ongoing among Gulf states to address the rising tensions.

Ahmed Al-RashidSun Feb 08 2026Loading...

Two F-22 Raptors from the U.S. Air Force withdrew from the Super Bowl flyover on February 6, 2025, due to operational requirements. The aircraft were redeployed for combat missions amid increasing military pressure on Iran. Recent actions involving the F-22s include participation in operations against Iran, while indirect negotiations between the U.S. and Iran continue.

The People's Liberation Army (PLA) conducted military exercises simulating a blockade of Taiwan in the Taiwan Strait on January 1, 2025, marking its first incursion into Taiwan's 12-nautical-mile buffer zone. The exercises included maritime interdiction and air superiority operations, indicating a significant escalation in cross-Strait tensions. The US response has been measured, raising concerns about alliance credibility among regional partners.

Marcus ChenSun Feb 08 2026Loading...

China conducted large-scale military exercises around Taiwan from December 29-30, 2024, demonstrating its military capabilities and posing significant threats to Japan's security. On December 9, 2024, Chinese and Russian strategic bombers conducted joint patrols over the Miyako Strait, indicating a strategic partnership aimed at challenging U.S.-led regional order. Japan's Self-Defense Forces are under pressure to enhance their capabilities in response to these developments.

Tanaka TakashiSun Feb 08 2026Loading...

The People's Liberation Army (PLA) conducted joint military exercises around Taiwan on December 29-30, 2022, breaching the 12-nautical-mile territorial waters for the first time. This marked a significant escalation in PLA tactics, involving coordinated operations across all service branches and demonstrating operational maturity in blockade capabilities. The exercises pose critical challenges to Taiwan's defense strategy and decision-making processes, indicating a shift towards rehearsing actual combat scenarios for forced reunification.

Alexandra ReevesSun Feb 08 2026Loading...

The People's Liberation Army (PLA) conducted a large-scale joint military exercise named 'Just Mission 2025' in the Taiwan Strait on December 29-30, 2025, marking its first entry into Taiwan's 12 nautical mile contiguous zone. This exercise involved multiple military branches, showcasing enhanced operational capabilities and signaling a shift in China's military posture towards Taiwan. The U.S. responded by urging restraint from Beijing, highlighting the strategic implications of the PLA's actions.

Li MinghuiSun Feb 08 2026Loading...

The 7th UAE Special Police Challenge began on February 7 in Dubai, featuring 109 teams from 48 countries, including 10 women's teams. The Chinese women's special police teams, competing for the first time, achieved notable success, with the Sichuan Women's Special Police Team ranking first among all women's teams. The event focused on tactical operations and teamwork under pressure.

The Iranian Air Force is currently at the highest state of readiness, prepared to respond decisively to any threats or aggression. This declaration was made by Major General Mousavi on February 7, emphasizing the Air Force's role in deterrence and defense. Iran asserts it will protect its national security and territorial integrity, warning that any enemy actions could result in severe consequences.

The Shanghai Armed Police Corps Chemical Defense Unit conducted training exercises focused on responding to biochemical weapon attacks. Troops quickly assembled and deployed to a simulated hazardous area, utilizing protective gear during the training. This exercise is part of their preparation for handling toxic and harmful substance leaks.

Ukraine is enhancing its air defense capabilities with new tasks assigned by President Zelensky to Defense Minister Reznikov. NATO has committed to providing additional air defense systems and offensive weapons, including Patriot systems and F-16 jets. A contract for F-16 maintenance worth over $235 million has been signed, and Ukraine is prioritizing defense against drone and missile threats.

Western navies, including those of France, the UK, the Netherlands, Italy, and the USA, are preparing to enhance their military capabilities in response to threats from Russian submarines. During a naval conference in Paris on February 2-3, 2023, officials expressed concerns about potential conflicts and emphasized the need for increased readiness and cooperation. The Dutch Navy Commander highlighted a specific readiness date of January 1, 2028, while U.S. officials noted expected improvements in naval firepower.

The August 1st Aerobatic Team of the Chinese Air Force performed at the Singapore Airshow, showcasing their aerial capabilities. The event took place recently in Singapore and was well-received by attendees.