Analysis & Reports

Israeli Defense Forces are striking Iranian regime targets in Tehran as of March 22, 2023. The operation was confirmed through an official statement, although no further details were provided regarding the specifics of the strikes.

The U.S. Air Force is extending the operational life of the F-22 Raptor and F/A-18 Super Hornet due to delays in the F-47 program, which will not be available until the mid-2030s. Representative Rob Wittman confirmed the need for these measures during the McAleese Defense Programs Conference. The F-47's first flight is scheduled for 2028, but the Air Force must rely on existing aircraft for air superiority in the interim.

On March 17, 2026, U.S. lawmakers confirmed that the F-47 fighter will not be operational until the mid-2030s, necessitating the continued use of F-22 Raptors and F/A-18 Super Hornets. This strategic decision aims to bridge the capability gap while facing advanced threats from adversaries like China's J-20. The U.S. Air Force is investing in upgrades to extend the service life of existing aircraft.

A British Royal Navy nuclear-powered submarine arrived in the Arabian Sea on March 21. The submarine is equipped to launch cruise missiles, indicating its operational capabilities in the region.

Lockheed Martin successfully conducted the first flight test of the Precision Strike Missile (PrSM) Increment 2 on March 12, 2026, in the United States. The missile demonstrated its ability to track and engage moving maritime threats, marking a significant advancement in the U.S. Army's long-range precision strike capabilities. The PrSM is currently being utilized in Operation Epic Fury against Iranian targets.

On March 22, 2023, Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps conducted missile and drone strikes against multiple southern Israeli cities, including Arad, Dimona, Eilat, and Beersheba, as well as U.S. military bases located in Kuwait and the UAE. This operation utilized various missile types, including Fateh, Qader, and Imad, as part of their ongoing military campaign.

As of March 21, 2026, the U.S. Navy and Royal Navy are advancing the construction of the Columbia-class and Dreadnought-class submarines, respectively, to enhance their nuclear deterrent capabilities. Both classes will utilize a shared Common Missile Compartment for Trident II D5 nuclear missiles, ensuring a synchronized undersea deterrence strategy against threats from China and Russia. The Dreadnought-class is set to replace the aging Vanguard-class submarines.

Iranian missiles struck the Israeli cities of Dimona and Arad on March 21, injuring over 100 people. The Israeli Defense Forces acknowledged their failure to intercept the missiles, which resulted in significant damage and casualties. Rescue operations are currently underway, with reports of serious injuries and individuals trapped in the rubble.

The Nanchang Ship, part of the Liaoning Carrier Strike Group, responded to a provocation from two foreign ships attempting to cross its formation in the Western Pacific at 6 AM. The Nanchang Ship executed tactical maneuvers to block the incursion, leading the foreign vessels to retreat after realizing they could not proceed.

On March 21, Iranian military launched a missile attack on Dimona, Israel, resulting in 47 injuries and the collapse of a building. The International Atomic Energy Agency reported no damage to the nearby nuclear research center and noted no abnormal radiation levels. The attack was confirmed by Iranian media as a response to Israeli actions against Iran's Natanz nuclear facility.

The Israeli Air Force conducted an airstrike on a strategic research facility in Tehran on March 21, 2023, which was reportedly used for developing nuclear weapons components. This action was confirmed by the Israeli Defense Forces, amidst ongoing tensions regarding Iran's nuclear capabilities.

Iranian forces launched a missile attack on a building in Dimona, Israel, on March 21, resulting in the collapse of the structure and injuring 39 individuals. Eyewitnesses reported a missile striking the area, followed by significant explosions. The attack occurred near a sensitive nuclear facility, prompting multiple air raid alerts in southern Israel.

Iranian air defense systems activated and intercepted incoming targets over Tehran on March 21 at 20:00 local time. The interception involved multiple targets from different directions and lasted for about one hour.

U.S. Central Command recently destroyed an underground facility in Iran that housed anti-ship cruise missiles and mobile missile launchers using multiple 5000-pound bombs. This operation also targeted Iranian intelligence and radar stations, diminishing Iran's threat to navigation in the Hormuz Strait. To date, U.S. forces have attacked over 8000 Iranian military targets.

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy conducted missile and drone strikes on air bases in Minhad, UAE, and Kuwait on March 21. The strikes targeted facilities used by US and Israeli aircraft, resulting in their destruction. The operation was confirmed by the IRGC Navy commander on social media.

On March 21, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps of Iran launched Operation 'Real Commitment-4', targeting Israel and the U.S. Navy's Fifth Fleet with Qader and Emad missiles. The operation successfully struck multiple locations in northern and central Israel, as well as the U.S. naval forces. Iran's military stated that this operation demonstrates its enhanced defensive capabilities.

Iranian military sources warned that the U.S. would face unprecedented retaliation if it conducts military aggression against Khark Island. The island is crucial for Iran's oil exports, and the situation could escalate, complicating U.S. operations in the region. The Iranian military indicated that creating insecurity in the Strait of Hormuz and the Red Sea is one of the options available to them.

Iranian President Pezeshkian stated that the U.S. and Israel must cease their aggressive actions to end the ongoing conflict in the region during a phone call with Indian Prime Minister Modi on March 21, 2023. Modi expressed deep concern over the escalating tensions and condemned any attacks on regional energy infrastructure, emphasizing the need for peace and security in the area.

The Rapid Support Forces conducted a drone strike on a hospital in Daein, East Darfur on March 20, 2023, resulting in at least 62 deaths, including 12 children, and 113 injuries. The emergency building of the hospital was completely destroyed, and rescue operations are ongoing. This attack has been condemned for violating international humanitarian law, with calls for an independent investigation.

The U.S. military is increasing its presence in Greenland by adding special operations forces and expanding operations in new areas. Discussions with Denmark are ongoing to establish a wider military presence, including additional maritime assets. Currently, the U.S. operates Pituffik Space Base, and plans are in place to expand defense areas beyond this base.