Analysis & Reports
AI-assisted analysis of military-related information from public sources
Russian military confirms classified satellite launch from Plesetsk
Russia launched a classified military satellite from Plesetsk on August 24, using a Soyuz-2-1b rocket. This occurred a day after Ukrainian drones reached the Arkhangelsk region in an attempt to disrupt the launch, leading to the downing of 40 drones by Russian forces. The satellite's payload, designated 'Kosmos', successfully reached orbit as planned.
Storm Shadow for Ukraine in 2026 and Threats to British Factories Highlight the Crisis of Russian Deterrence
The UK is set to provide Ukraine with documentation for producing Storm Shadow missiles, prompting Russia to threaten British factories. This development indicates a shift in military strategy, as Russia perceives the potential for Ukraine to establish a distributed production capability. In response, Russia is likely to enhance reconnaissance and increase threats against Ukrainian industrial sites.
Dmitri VolkovTue Aug 25 2026Loading...
Four Ozon Warehouses and the Kamensky Plant Expose a New Vulnerability in the Russian Rear
Ukrainian drones targeted at least four Ozon logistics facilities and a chemical plant in Kamen, Rostov Oblast, on August 23-24, 2023. Ozon confirmed the incapacitation of its logistics hubs, impacting supply chains. The strikes are part of a broader campaign to disrupt Russian logistics, with reports of civilian casualties complicating the situation for Moscow.
Dmitri VolkovMon Aug 24 2026Loading...
Ukraine reveals scale of Behemoth kamikaze drone production line
Ukraine is producing dozens of Behemoth kamikaze drones, which have been used in strikes against the Chonhar Bridge and other targets in occupied territories. The drone, developed by GLEFA and Culver Aerospace, has a range of 300 km and carries a payload of 75 kg. Reports indicate that the Behemoth is already in operational use by the Ukrainian Defense Forces.
Ukraine holds world’s first all-drone military parade
Ukraine held the world’s first military parade composed entirely of unmanned systems in Kyiv on August 24, 2026, showcasing various ground, naval, and aerial drones. The event marked Ukraine’s Independence Day and highlighted the formal establishment of the Unmanned Systems Forces as a dedicated military branch. This parade featured dozens of ground robotic systems and naval kamikaze drones, emphasizing Ukraine's advancements in drone warfare.
Russia claims it shot down Flamingo missile with gunfire
A volunteer air defense unit from the BARS-Kursk brigade shot down a Ukrainian FP-5 Flamingo cruise missile using machine-gun fire in Kursk Region on August 22 to 23, 2026. The missile was reportedly flying at approximately 500 km/h at a low altitude when it was engaged. Russian officials released footage of the incident, but the claims have not been independently verified.
Russia reportedly receives North Korean heavy missiles for the first time
Russia has reportedly received and deployed the North Korean KN-30 heavy ballistic missile, with six launch systems capable of firing up to 120 missiles. This missile has a range of 600 to 900 kilometers and poses a significant threat to Ukrainian regions. Military analysts note its potential to destroy critical infrastructure, such as bridges, in Ukraine.
Russian Defense Ministry: Shot Down 269 Ukrainian Drones
Russian air defense forces intercepted and shot down 269 Ukrainian drones across multiple regions, including Arkhangelsk, Belgorod, Bryansk, and Moscow, on August 23, 2023. This action occurred between 8:00 and 20:00 Moscow time. President Putin indicated that Ukraine has been conducting drone and missile attacks on Russian infrastructure for the past 40 days, describing it as a reckless endeavor supported by the West.
Putin Claims Russia Will Target Ukraine's Most Sensitive Economic Sectors
Russia is intensifying its military operations against Ukrainian economic targets in response to attacks on its civilian infrastructure. On September 22-23, Russian forces targeted logistics warehouses of Ukraine's second-largest e-commerce platform in Samara and Orenburg. Ukrainian President Zelensky confirmed that Ukraine is retaliating against these escalations, while also seeking more air defense support from allies.
The Chinese Air Force's multinational and intercontinental exercises attract attention; experts say: enhancing various practical combat capabilities, showcasing China's responsible great power role.
The Chinese Air Force participated in joint military exercises with Belarus, Thailand, Egypt, and the UAE throughout August 2023, showcasing various aircraft types and enhancing operational capabilities. These exercises included intercontinental deployments and aimed to improve joint counter-terrorism operations and regional stability. Military experts emphasized the importance of these activities for fostering international military cooperation and demonstrating China's responsible global role.
J-16's First Visit to Egypt, J-10C Concludes Joint Training in Thailand, PLA Air Force's 2026 Three-Line Long-Distance Deployment Becomes Routine
The People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) conducted joint military exercises involving J-16 aircraft in Egypt on August 21, 2026, marking their first deployment to Africa. Concurrently, exercises were held in Thailand and Belarus, focusing on long-range deployment and multi-domain operations. The YY-20A tanker supported the J-16s with aerial refueling, indicating a shift towards regular training operations rather than one-time demonstrations.
Li MinghuiSun Aug 23 2026Loading...Only 28 percent of Russian gas stations with gasoline in August 2026 show the price of the rear war
In August 2026, only 28% of Russian gas stations had gasoline available, indicating a significant shortage. The Russian government is importing gasoline from India to address this issue, which is affecting military logistics and political stability. President Putin acknowledged the impact of Ukrainian strikes on Russian infrastructure, linking it to the ongoing gasoline crisis. This shortage coincides with an election cycle, raising concerns for the Kremlin regarding public dissatisfaction.
Dmitri VolkovSun Aug 23 2026Loading...
Three Russian Navy Varangian and Steregushchy-class ships pass through the Soya Strait consecutively, raising concerns about the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force's northern surveillance burden.
Three Russian Navy vessels, including the Slava-class cruiser 'Varyag' and three Steregushchiy-class corvettes, passed through the Soya Strait on August 20 and 21, 2023. The Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force monitored these movements, highlighting ongoing military operations in the region. This activity suggests a deliberate show of force by the Russian Pacific Fleet, increasing the surveillance burden on Japan's defense forces.
Tanaka TakashiSun Aug 23 2026Loading...
Military Situation Update: What Impact Do Western Weapons and Intelligence Have on the Course of the Russia-Ukraine War?
Ukraine has conducted drone strikes deep into Russian territory using British-made drones, prompting a strong response from Russia. Turkey plans to transfer U.S. weapons to Ukraine, while NATO provides intelligence support for targeting. Japan is collaborating with Ukraine on drone production, indicating a significant escalation in military involvement from Western nations. Russia has warned that the use of British weapons constitutes direct participation in the conflict.
The Russian military may use drones to deliver meals to the front lines.
The Russian Army is implementing training for military cooks in drone operation to facilitate food delivery to frontline troops. This initiative, reported on August 20, 2023, aims to enhance supply efficiency in areas where conventional transport is challenging. The training will cover both theoretical knowledge and practical skills in operating drones and ground unmanned platforms.
Russian "Doomsday Weapon" Mother Ship Conducts Sea Trials
The Khabarovsk nuclear submarine conducted its first sea test on August 19, 2023, carrying six Poseidon unmanned underwater vehicles. The Poseidon, known as Russia's 'doomsday weapon', is designed for strategic nuclear delivery and can operate at depths of 1,000 meters. It is capable of traveling 10,000 kilometers in 90 hours, targeting naval bases and coastal military facilities.
Russia claims to continue striking Ukrainian ports and maritime vessels; Ukraine claims to target two important Russian sites.
Russian forces continued airstrikes on Ukrainian ports and naval vessels on the 21st, targeting military warehouses and a naval patrol boat. In response, Ukrainian forces launched long-range strikes on two significant Russian targets, including an oil refinery and a military airport. Additionally, Russian troops secured a residential area in the Donetsk region.
‘They Need Cages’: The US Army M1 Abrams Was Never Built to Fight In a War Like the Ukraine War
Ukrainian forces have lost 27 of the 31 US-supplied M1 Abrams tanks by mid-2025, prompting Australia to send 49 additional tanks. The first confirmed loss of these Australian tanks occurred near Pokrovsk in late December 2025. To enhance survivability against drone attacks, Ukrainian units have installed Cope Cages and reinforced armor on the tanks.
Foreign Media: Norway Expands Arctic Patrols, Strengthens Monitoring at Russian Border
Norway announced the expansion of the Finnmark Brigade on August 20, 2023, to enhance its defense capabilities along the border with Russia. The brigade will add an artillery battalion, an air defense company, and a communication company, improving its operational capacity. This move is part of Norway's broader military strategy in response to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict and aims to bolster NATO's presence in the region.
Blown Out of the Sky: Russia Is Losing Su-34 Fullback Fighter-Bombers Faster Than Novosibirsk Can Build Them. Moscow Keeps Flying Them Anyway.
Russia is losing Su-34 Fullback fighter-bombers at an unsustainable rate while continuing to employ them in air operations against Ukraine. Four Su-34s were reportedly destroyed by Ukraine at Marinovka air base. The Russian Air Force has adapted its tactics to utilize glide bombs from higher altitudes, resulting in over 16,500 glide bombs dropped in June and July. The ongoing conflict has forced Russia to innovate its airstrike strategies despite significant losses.
