Analysis & Reports

In 2026, the U.S. Navy's Arleigh Burke-class, China's Type 055, and the Royal Navy's Type 45 destroyers are compared for their capabilities in the Indo-Pacific. The Arleigh Burke-class has been operational since 1991, while the Type 055 represents a significant advancement in Chinese naval power. The Type 45 is recognized for its sophisticated air-defense systems, although it has limitations in firepower.

Li MinghuiWed Feb 18 2026Loading...

On February 17, 2026, seven J-10 aircraft from the People's Liberation Army Air Force flew non-stop from Singapore to China, supported by Y-20 tankers. The operation showcased the PLAAF's aerial refueling capabilities, which are currently limited by the number of operational tankers. The report highlights the strategic implications of these capabilities in potential conflict scenarios, particularly in the Taiwan Strait region.

Li MinghuiWed Feb 18 2026Loading...

The PLA Marine Corps Commander revealed four core missions and the capabilities of the new 076 amphibious assault ship, which integrates drone operations into amphibious warfare. This announcement coincides with the impending service of the 076 ship, which can launch fixed-wing drones, significantly extending operational reach. The Commander emphasized the importance of these capabilities in the context of potential operations related to Taiwan.

Li MinghuiTue Feb 17 2026Loading...

On December 5, 2023, the U.S. Navy successfully recovered wreckage of an F/A-18F Super Hornet and an MH-60R Seahawk from 400 feet deep in the South China Sea. This operation highlighted the U.S. Navy's advanced underwater recovery capabilities, contrasting with China's limited resources in this area. The deployment of the Fujian aircraft carrier raises concerns about potential aircraft accidents and the need for effective recovery operations.

Li MinghuiMon Feb 16 2026Loading...

On February 13, the People's Liberation Army Air Force successfully locked onto a foreign stealth aircraft at a distance of 800 meters using a J-16 fighter jet. This operation highlights the effectiveness of China's multi-layered anti-stealth defense system, which integrates ground-based and airborne radar support. The incident raises questions about the challenges of detecting stealth aircraft at greater distances and the operational costs involved in such military engagements.

Li MinghuiSat Feb 14 2026Loading...

The People's Liberation Army (PLA) conducted a large-scale joint military exercise named 'Just Mission 2025' in the Taiwan Strait on December 29-30, 2025, marking its first entry into Taiwan's 12 nautical mile contiguous zone. This exercise involved multiple military branches, showcasing enhanced operational capabilities and signaling a shift in China's military posture towards Taiwan. The U.S. responded by urging restraint from Beijing, highlighting the strategic implications of the PLA's actions.

Li MinghuiSun Feb 08 2026Loading...

The People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) showcased its long-range air power projection capabilities at the Singapore Airshow 2026, with J-10C fighter jets flying directly from China to Singapore via aerial refueling. This event marks a significant milestone in China's military modernization efforts. Additionally, the J-35A stealth fighter was presented as a potential alternative to the F-35 for international buyers, reflecting China's growing influence in the defense market amid shifting geopolitical dynamics in Southeast Asia.

Li MinghuiSat Feb 07 2026Loading...