Analysis & Reports

The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force's JS Kirishima has completed system modifications and crew training in the United States, confirming its capability to launch Tomahawk cruise missiles. The ship will conduct live-fire training off the U.S. coast until summer 2024 before returning to Sasebo, Nagasaki, to commence official duties in mid-September 2024.

The U.S. Navy has deployed uncrewed drone speedboats for patrols in the Middle East as part of operations against Iran, marking the first confirmed use of such vessels in active conflict. These vessels, known as the Global Autonomous Reconnaissance Craft (GARC), are utilized for surveillance and have logged significant operational hours. This deployment occurs amidst ongoing tensions, with Iran previously using sea drones to target oil tankers in the region.

The U.S. Navy has deployed uncrewed drone speedboats for patrols in the Middle East as part of operations against Iran, marking the first confirmed use of such vessels in active conflict. These vessels, known as the Global Autonomous Reconnaissance Craft (GARC), are utilized for surveillance and have logged significant operational hours. This deployment occurs amidst ongoing tensions, with Iran previously using sea drones to target oil tankers.

In April 1988, the U.S. Navy executed Operation Praying Mantis in the Persian Gulf, targeting Iranian naval forces in response to the USS Samuel B. Roberts being damaged by an Iranian mine. The operation resulted in the sinking of two Iranian ships and the destruction of surveillance platforms, marking a significant naval engagement for the U.S. Navy.

The Royal Navy proposed Operation Habbakuk, an aircraft carrier made of ice, during World War II. The carrier was designed to weigh 2.2 million tons and utilize a material called pykrete. However, the project was abandoned by mid-1943 due to technological advancements and logistical challenges.

U.S. President Trump announced a 10-day delay in airstrikes against Iranian energy facilities, now set for April 6, 2020, at 8 PM EDT, following a request from the Iranian government. He stated that negotiations are progressing well, although he expressed uncertainty about Iran's compliance with the deadline to open the Strait of Hormuz. Trump had previously threatened military action if the Strait was not opened.

The Justice Department filed a lawsuit against S & K Towing Inc. for illegally auctioning off 148 vehicles belonging to service members, many towed from Camp Pendleton. The company allegedly violated the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act by selling these vehicles without court orders, even after being notified of their military ownership. The lawsuit seeks damages and penalties for the towing company.

President Trump stated that U.S. military actions against Iran will continue, denying any urgency to reach a deal. He emphasized that the decision to cease hostilities lies with Iran, while threatening military action if Iran does not comply with demands regarding the Strait of Hormuz. Iran has formally responded to U.S. proposals, rejecting a ceasefire and outlining its own conditions.

The U.S. Navy built only three Seawolf-class submarines, commissioned between 1997 and 2005, due to high costs and the end of the Cold War. These submarines, known for their advanced capabilities and stealth, are currently stationed at Naval Base Kitsap in Washington. The last submarine, USS Jimmy Carter, was designed for special operations and intelligence missions.

On March 26, 2023, President Trump announced that 10 oil tankers were permitted to pass through the Strait of Hormuz, framing it as a gesture from Iran to show negotiation sincerity. He indicated that controlling Iranian oil is an option but did not elaborate further. The Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps is enforcing a control system for vessels in the Strait, which is vital for global energy transport.

The U.S. Army is seeking mobile short-range air defense systems for light infantry forces to enhance their capabilities during joint forced entry operations. The Request for Information outlines the need for sled- or pallet-mounted weapons that can be transported by light vehicles. This initiative aims to protect against drones and aircraft, with a target deployment timeframe of 2027 to 2029.

Russian President Putin stated that he hopes the Middle East conflict will conclude within weeks, emphasizing that while it has generated excess profits for Russia, this situation is not sustainable. The Russian government is concerned about the ongoing disruptions to global energy transport routes and the implications of military actions by Iran against U.S. and Israeli targets.

Intense explosions and prominent aircraft noise were reported in Tehran on March 26 at 20:00 local time. Iranian Air Defense Forces were actively intercepting, indicating a defensive operation in response to an aerial threat.

Israeli Defense Forces conducted an airstrike on Abbas Port in Iran on March 26, 2023, resulting in the deaths of multiple high-ranking officials from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy, including Commander Ali Reza Tangsiri. The strike was executed with intelligence support while Tangsiri was in a meeting with other senior officers.

John Windom, a former senior official at the Veterans Affairs, was charged in Washington, D.C. for failing to disclose over $16,000 in gifts from contractors involved in the VA's health records modernization program. The indictment alleges he accepted various gifts, including cash and gift cards, while serving in his position. Windom's actions are said to have created serious conflicts of interest regarding veterans' healthcare.

Sen. Roger Wicker criticized the National Defense Strategy for inadequately addressing nuclear and space threats during a recent Senate hearing. He expressed concerns about Russia's development of a space-based nuclear anti-satellite weapon, which could significantly alter military dynamics. U.S. Strategic Command leaders emphasized the importance of preparing for these emerging threats and maintaining strong military alliances.

The Russian Navy announced plans to replace its entire fleet of third-generation nuclear-powered attack submarines with 12 Yasen-class submarines by 2035. This modernization aims to phase out aging Soviet-era submarines and enhance undersea capabilities with advanced weaponry, including Zircon hypersonic missiles. The latest Yasen-M submarine, Perm, was launched in March 2025, marking a significant step in this initiative. However, resource constraints may challenge the timely completion of this ambitious plan.

During a Pentagon prayer service, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth prayed for overwhelming violence against enemies, referencing a prayer used in the operation against Nicolás Maduro. This marked the first monthly Christian worship ceremony since the Iran war began. Hegseth's remarks have drawn criticism from advocacy groups concerned about the intersection of faith and military policy.

The US Army has selected Carlyle and CyrusOne to negotiate for commercial hyperscale data centers at Fort Bliss in Texas and Dugway Proving Ground in Utah. This initiative is part of the Enhanced Use Lease program, aimed at bolstering national security and technological innovation. The Army plans to sign its first leasing agreement by July 1, with the companies responsible for all costs and operations related to the projects.

A U.S. Air Force B-52H Stratofortress declared an in-flight emergency over Southampton, England, on March 24, issuing a '7700' distress signal before safely returning to RAF Fairford. This incident occurred amidst ongoing U.S. military operations targeting Iranian missile sites, highlighting the aircraft's role in modern airstrike capabilities.