Analysis & Reports

USS Kitty Hawk served as a conventional aircraft carrier from 1961 to 2009, participating in significant military operations including the Vietnam War and Operation Enduring Freedom. The carrier was forward-deployed in Yokosuka, Japan, enhancing U.S. military presence in the Western Pacific. Kitty Hawk represented the last generation of conventional supercarriers before the transition to nuclear-powered vessels.

The Combined Maritime Task Force (CMTF) launched on June 1, 2026, in Lagos, aims to enhance maritime security against piracy in the Gulf of Guinea, involving 26 countries. Nigeria has contributed initial resources, including three ships and personnel, but the success of the CMTF hinges on cooperation among member states and addressing logistical challenges. Despite a reduction in piracy, the region remains vulnerable to organized crime, necessitating a coordinated response.

Marie DuboisMon Jun 29 2026Loading...

JNIM's siege of Bamako has resulted in the deaths of 73 civilians since the offensive began on April 25, 2023. In Zambougou, civilians were forced off buses and vehicles were burned. The Malian Armed Forces have also conducted operations leading to civilian casualties, including drone strikes. The ongoing conflict has severely impacted civilian life, with fuel shortages and increased violence in the region.

Marie DuboisMon Jun 29 2026Loading...

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...

JNIM attacked military positions in Koualou, Benin, resulting in casualties among soldiers and civilians, and the loss of weapons and equipment. The Benin Armed Forces, with around 12,000 active personnel, are facing challenges from jihadist groups operating from neighboring countries. The government is increasing defense spending to address these threats, but logistical and operational challenges remain significant.

Marie DuboisSat Jun 27 2026Loading...

U.S. forces conducted airstrikes against al-Shabaab in Somalia between June 14 and June 19, 2026, with at least 68 strikes reported since the beginning of the year. General Christopher Donahue is set to leave his command of U.S. Army Europe and Africa, impacting operations in the region. The campaign increasingly relies on bases in Djibouti and Kenya, while the U.S. seeks to enhance its engagement with local Somali leaders.

Marie DuboisThu Jun 25 2026Loading...

The Trump administration requested $87.6 billion from Congress, primarily for military needs related to the Iran war and health responses to the Ebola outbreak. This includes $67.15 billion for military funding, with $21 billion earmarked for munitions and support for the U.S. industrial base. Additionally, $500 million is allocated for Global Health Security efforts in Africa, including a quarantine facility in Kenya.

RAND study indicates that the U.S. Navy may struggle to repair battle-damaged ships during a potential conflict with China in August 2025. The analysis highlights vulnerabilities in the U.S. repair logistics, particularly in the Western Pacific, while noting that the Chinese Navy has advantages due to closer industrial support. The report emphasizes the need for improved logistics and pre-positioning of spare parts to maintain operational readiness.

Li MinghuiWed Jun 24 2026Loading...

U.S. warships faced significant challenges in being quickly repaired and returned to combat during a hypothetical war with China, as maintenance facilities would be overwhelmed and spare parts would be insufficient. The study highlighted the need for improved coordination with Pacific allies and the expansion of mobile repair capabilities. Additionally, the complexity of repairs in a hostile environment poses risks to U.S. maritime dominance.

The U.S. military conducted four airstrikes against al-Shabab militants in Somalia from June 14-19, 2023. This marked the first airstrikes since May 6, targeting militant bases in the Lower Juba region near Kismayo. Local reports indicate that 14 militants were killed, with operations supported by Somali ground forces. U.S. Africa Command stated that these actions aim to degrade al-Shabab's capabilities.

The German Navy is deploying two ships, the mine-clearing ship Fulda and the supply ship Mosel, to Djibouti in preparation for a potential mine-clearing mission in the Strait of Hormuz. This deployment involves 140 soldiers and is part of the EU operation Aspides. Parliamentary approval is needed for the mission, which is contingent on a stable situation regarding Iran and an international mandate. Iran has issued warnings against European naval presence in the region.

Colombian contractors, known as Lobos del Desierto, are actively participating in drone warfare alongside the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Sudan as of June 2026. They are providing critical skills in drone operation and logistics, significantly impacting the conflict. The RSF has adapted its tactics, leading to increased drone strikes that have resulted in over 1,000 civilian casualties. Key logistical routes for these contractors involve complex international travel.

Marie DuboisThu Jun 18 2026Loading...

On June 16, the Chinese peacekeeping helicopter unit successfully passed a UN equipment inspection in Abyei, confirming that all equipment met mission standards. The inspection covered 24 items, including housing facilities and medical equipment, and the unit was commended for its operational readiness and management practices. The unit continues to ensure equipment is maintained for ongoing peacekeeping tasks.

The George Washington Carrier Strike Group and three JMSDF ships conducted joint training exercises in the Western Pacific from May 22 to June 16, 2026. The exercises included air defense, anti-submarine warfare, and underway replenishment, highlighting the operational capabilities of the Japan-U.S. supply network. Guam was utilized as a strategic logistics hub during these operations, signaling a deterrent posture against Chinese naval activities.

Tanaka TakashiThu Jun 18 2026Loading...

The U.S. Department of Defense is emphasizing rapid innovation in military technology, particularly in drone production and weapon systems. Recent developments include Marines field-producing shaped charges from local materials in the Indo-Pacific, demonstrating significant advancements in military capabilities. The Pentagon has also introduced a 'patent holiday' to facilitate access to government-held technological patents, aiming to enhance defense innovation.

JNIM has established a logistical blockade affecting supply routes to Bamako, significantly disrupting the flow of goods and resources. This blockade, which began after coordinated attacks in April 2026, targets key routes from Dakar, Conakry, and Abidjan, leading to shortages and increased prices in the capital. The group aims to exert pressure on the Malian state by making transportation too risky and costly.

Marie DuboisTue Jun 16 2026Loading...

U.S. troops deployed to Nanyuki, Kenya, to assist in constructing an Ebola quarantine facility. The facility aims to house Americans exposed to the disease, amid ongoing protests in Kenya that have resulted in fatalities. The deployment includes logistics and planning support, with no frontline medical care provided by the troops.

The French Navy's Charles de Gaulle (R 91) is currently deployed in the Eastern Mediterranean, conducting operations in support of allied forces. This nuclear aircraft carrier, weighing 42,000 tons, has a storied history of construction challenges and has been actively involved in military operations since its commissioning. It continues to play a crucial role in regional security and military engagements.

Allen-Vanguard secured over $3 million in contracts for its Electronic Countermeasure systems to enhance force protection and C-IED capabilities in Africa. The contracts include comprehensive training and support for users and technicians. These systems aim to improve protection against Radio Controlled Improvised Explosive Devices and Uncrewed Air Systems threats.

The USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) experienced a significant fire on March 21, 2023, while operating in the Red Sea, resulting in over 600 personnel losing their sleeping quarters. The fire lasted more than 30 hours, causing extensive damage and requiring over a year of maintenance before the ship can return to service. Additionally, the USS Ford is facing severe issues with its toilet system, compounding operational challenges.