Analysis & Reports

The Houthis captured Mokha, disrupting Saudi oil exports, and launched attacks on Riyadh's King Khalid International Airport in October 2026, resulting in casualties. Saudi Arabia is planning a ground invasion with 100,000 troops to recapture Mokha and Hodeidah. Many international airlines have suspended flights to Saudi Arabia due to security threats, and there are concerns about potential unrest in the Eastern Province fueled by Iranian influence.

China is building a layered fighter force with J-20S and J-35A aircraft to enhance its air capabilities in the Western Pacific by 2026. The J-20S serves as a long-range stealth air-superiority platform, while the J-35A is a smaller, more deployable stealth fighter. This production strategy aims to complicate U.S. and allied air operations, forcing them to allocate resources defensively.

Marcus ChenSun Oct 11 2026Loading...

Lakurawa attacked a federal road construction site in Kangiwa, Kebbi, on October 8, 2026, resulting in the deaths of two Nigerian soldiers and one Chinese national. Nigerian forces later repelled an assault on a nearby base, recovering 17 motorcycles and weapons. This incident highlights Lakurawa's increasing disruption of infrastructure in northwestern Nigeria, posing a significant threat to security and stability in the region.

Marie DuboisSun Oct 11 2026Loading...

The Lakurawa group attacked a construction site in Kangiwa, Kebbi, on October 8-10, 2026, killing two Nigerian soldiers and one Chinese national. The Nigerian Army responded by repelling the attackers and recovering 17 motorcycles. This incident signifies a strategic shift in Kebbi's security landscape, as it becomes integrated into jihadist activities, impacting foreign investments and local control.

Marie DuboisSun Oct 11 2026Loading...

The Chinese Navy hospital ship 'Peace Ark' concluded its visit to Conakry, Guinea, on October 10, 2023, after providing medical services and engaging in cultural exchanges. During its stay, the ship performed surgeries and conducted training sessions, receiving praise from the local community. A farewell ceremony was held at the port, attended by Guinean officials and the Chinese ambassador.

Boko Haram and ISWAP killed 15 farmers and wood gatherers near Ala and Musune in Borno State on October 10, 2026. The attack occurred as the victims left displacement camps to seek livelihoods. Local sources indicate a system of control and taxation imposed by the insurgents, complicating civilian access to resources and safety.

Marie DuboisSat Oct 10 2026Loading...

ISWAP is deploying around 100 fighters to Menaka, Mali, and 50 to Nasarawa, Nigeria, as part of a strategy to reinforce its presence in the Sahel. This movement reflects ongoing military pressures and operational adjustments within ISWAP, which is adapting to challenges in the region. The situation underscores the difficulties in tracking jihadist movements across borders and the evolving nature of threats in the Sahel and Nigeria.

Marie DuboisSat Oct 10 2026Loading...

Morocco announced plans to produce the IRIFI long-range drone domestically during the Marrakech Airshow from October 7-10, 2026. The Moroccan Armed Forces showcased their military capabilities and confirmed a partnership with French company Almaty for the drone's production. The IRIFI drone, featuring AI systems and a range of 2000 km, is designed for autonomous missions and aims to enhance Morocco's military capabilities and export potential.

EDGE signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Morocco’s Administration of National Defence on 9 October 2026 to localize production of small arms and aeronautical engines in Marrakech. This agreement aims to enhance regional partnerships and strengthen supply chains by collaborating with local companies, contributing to Morocco's defense capabilities.

EDGE signed a contract with Morocco's Administration of National Defence on 9 October 2026 to supply precision weapons, including the DESERT STING 16 and THUNDER P-31, to the Royal Moroccan Air Force. This contract will enhance the capabilities of Morocco's unmanned combat aerial vehicles and reflects EDGE's commitment to supporting African defense initiatives.

The Mozambican Defense Armed Forces (FADM) have been engaged in counter-insurgency operations against ISIS-linked insurgents in Cabo Delgado since October 5, 2017. Despite training over 1,600 personnel, the FADM faces significant challenges in local intelligence and community trust, leading to operational weaknesses. Insurgents utilize mobile tactics to disrupt supply routes, while allegations of human rights abuses by the military further complicate the situation.

Marie DuboisFri Oct 09 2026Loading...

Malian forces entered Kidal on October 6-7, 2026, following the withdrawal of Tuareg fighters. This operation, supported by Russian military assistance, is viewed as a strategic recovery of the city. However, the situation remains precarious, with concerns about jihadist groups exploiting the withdrawal of Tuareg forces and the need for a sustainable military presence.

Marie DuboisFri Oct 09 2026Loading...

Italy's official delegation is set to visit Lagos following the Nigerian Air Force's receipt of three Leonardo helicopters. This visit aims to strengthen defense engagement between Italy and Nigeria, coinciding with Italy's confirmation of participation in the AFRIDEX 2026 defense exhibition.

Israel's Ministry of Defense sent a delegation and national pavilion to the Marrakech Airshow in 2023, marking its first official participation since the Abraham Accords. Eight Israeli companies exhibited military technologies, including drones and air defense systems, highlighting Israel's strategy to enhance defense exports and cooperation with other nations. Morocco, a significant defense spender in Africa, hosted the event, which included meetings with various international delegations.

Malian Armed Forces entered Kidal on October 6, 2026, reclaiming the city with support from the Russian Africa Corps after the withdrawal of Tuareg fighters. This operation, while a territorial success, presents significant logistical challenges for maintaining control and securing supply routes. The absence of a decisive battle raises concerns about the potential for jihadist exploitation of the situation.

Marie DuboisThu Oct 08 2026Loading...

Winston Churchill delivered a speech on November 11, 1942, addressing the complexities of military victory during World War II, particularly after the Second Battle of El Alamein. He emphasized the significance of strategy and the element of surprise, noting that while victory is preferable to defeat, it presents its own challenges. Churchill's leadership and oratory were pivotal in rallying support for the British war effort.

The U.S. Navy reactivated four Iowa-class battleships between 1981 and 1992, upgrading them to carry 32 Tomahawk missiles, significantly extending their strike range to 1,553 miles. This modernization included advanced weaponry and systems, allowing the battleships to engage targets across Eastern Europe. The total cost for the upgrades was approximately $1.7 billion, with the ships actively participating in the Gulf War by launching 52 Tomahawk missiles.

U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning II stealth fighters flew alongside Moroccan F-16s at the Marrakech Airshow from October 7-10, 2023. This event showcased Morocco's interest in acquiring F-35As and highlighted ongoing military cooperation between the U.S. and Morocco, which includes recent upgrades to Morocco's air force. The U.S. military presence included 45 personnel and various aircraft on display.

ISWAP attacked the Nigerian Special Forces 101st Battalion in Kukawa on October 7, 2026, resulting in 10 Nigerian soldiers killed and claims of 25 militants killed. The Nigerian military reported that their forces held the position with air support, but the attack highlights ongoing challenges in controlling the area. The geography of Kukawa complicates military operations, allowing ISWAP to exploit local conditions effectively.

Marie DuboisThu Oct 08 2026Loading...

Houthi forces launched ballistic missile strikes against King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh on October 8, 2023, disrupting air traffic. They also targeted Yemeni government troops near the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait, resulting in casualties. Additionally, a Saudi military reconnaissance drone was shot down in Taiz Governorate. In response, the Saudi-led coalition conducted a large-scale military operation against Houthi positions, destroying 82 military targets.