Analysis & Reports

On June 15, 2026, the People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) launched a training exercise from Qingdao involving the Qijiang-class training ship and Type 071 amphibious transport dock. The exercise included over 400 personnel, including foreign military students from 10 countries, focusing on naval operations and education on large operational platforms. This initiative aims to improve the operational capabilities of naval officers.

Li MinghuiWed Jun 17 2026Loading...

The People's Liberation Army (PLA) conducted a large-scale amphibious training exercise on June 15, 2026, along the Taiwan Strait, utilizing civilian vessels for logistics and troop deployment. The exercise spanned approximately 360 kilometers, demonstrating the PLA's focus on enhancing its amphibious operational capabilities. Key elements included overcoming coastal obstacles and employing floating bridges for troop movement.

Li MinghuiTue Jun 16 2026Loading...

On June 8, 2026, the U.S. Department of Defense updated the 1260H list, expanding it to 188 companies involved in sectors like electric vehicles and AI, which could support military needs. This shift indicates a focus on companies providing components for future battlefields rather than traditional military contractors. The inclusion of firms like Alibaba and Baidu reflects concerns over their potential military applications.

Li MinghuiThu Jun 11 2026Loading...

The People's Liberation Army (PLA) is integrating unmanned equipment into operational processes during the 'Prairie Partner-2026' joint training exercise in Inner Mongolia, which began on June 1, 2026. This includes the use of unmanned vehicles, drones, and exoskeletons to enhance logistics and support roles. The exercise emphasizes practical applications of these technologies in high-risk tasks such as casualty evacuation and vehicle repairs.

Li MinghuiFri Jun 05 2026Loading...

A team from the Chinese Academy of Sciences developed a new method for extracting cesium from salt lake brine, reported on June 2, 2026. This advancement is significant for military applications, particularly in satellite atomic clocks and missile sensors. The method aims to reduce reliance on high-grade cesium ore and provides a backup resource for China's military supply chain, leveraging overseas resources in Canada and Zimbabwe.

Li MinghuiWed Jun 03 2026Loading...

Mongolian troops arrived at a joint training base in Inner Mongolia on May 27, 2026, for the 'Prairie Partner-2026' military exercise with the PLA. The exercise focuses on joint operations against illegal armed organizations and involves the 79th Group Army, which is testing logistics and troop movement capabilities. This marks a significant evolution in military cooperation between China and Mongolia, emphasizing the establishment of command structures in joint operations.

Li MinghuiSat May 30 2026Loading...

The ChatBearing AI system, developed by a team at Chongqing University, can automate bearing design processes for the PLA, reducing design time significantly. This advancement reflects a broader trend in integrating AI into military manufacturing, although challenges remain in the effective deployment of such technologies in operational settings.

Li MinghuiFri May 29 2026Loading...

On May 19, the People's Liberation Army Navy's 054B-class frigate 545 (Luohe) and 901-class supply ship (Hulun Lake) traversed the Miyako Strait into the Pacific Ocean. This marks the first confirmation of the 054B-class frigate by Japanese forces, highlighting China's ongoing efforts to enhance its naval operational capabilities. The operation underscores the importance of logistics and support in long-range naval engagements.

Li MinghuiTue May 26 2026Loading...

The Fujian aircraft carrier has been stationed in Sanya, enhancing the operational capabilities of the People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN). The Liaoning is conducting training in the Western Pacific, while the Shandong operates in the South China Sea. This deployment reflects a strategic shift in China's naval operations, focusing on logistical support and multi-carrier operations.

Li MinghuiMon May 25 2026Loading...

The People's Liberation Army (PLA) will conduct joint military training with Mongolia, named 'Steppe Partner 2026', in Inner Mongolia from late May to early June 2026. The exercise aims to enhance capabilities against illegal armed groups and improve regional security. It follows a similar training in 2024, indicating ongoing military collaboration between China and Mongolia.

Li MinghuiSun May 24 2026Loading...

The Philippine government announced plans to extend the runway on Zhongye Island and expand the port on Nansha Island as of May 20, 2026. These developments aim to enhance logistical support and operational sustainability in the region. China is likely to monitor these changes closely, indicating a competitive infrastructure race in the South China Sea.

Li MinghuiWed May 20 2026Loading...

The Philippine government announced plans to extend the runway on Zhongye Island and expand the port on Nansha Island as of May 20, 2026. These developments aim to enhance logistical support and operational sustainability in the region. China is likely to monitor these changes closely, indicating a competitive infrastructure race in the South China Sea.

Li MinghuiWed May 20 2026Loading...

The Philippine Armed Forces are extending the runway on Zhongye Island and expanding the port on Nansha Shoal as of May 20, 2026. These developments aim to enhance logistical support and operational capabilities in the South China Sea. The runway's length and the port's improvements are significant for maintaining a sustained presence in the region, amidst ongoing tensions with China.

Li MinghuiWed May 20 2026Loading...

The People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) conducted live-fire training exercises with the Liaoning aircraft carrier in the Western Pacific on May 19, 2023. The exercises included tactical flight operations and logistical support, aimed at enhancing the operational capabilities of the carrier group. This training is part of an annual plan and raises concerns for Japan regarding the increased presence and operational tempo of Chinese naval forces in the region.

Li MinghuiWed May 20 2026Loading...

Twelve civilian ships participated in a People's Liberation Army (PLA) landing exercise in Guangdong on May 18, 2025. The exercise included 6 roll-on/roll-off ships and 6 deck cargo ships, indicating the PLA's integration of civilian maritime resources into military logistics. This development reflects a strategic shift in enhancing landing capabilities, although vulnerabilities remain due to the nature of civilian vessels.

Li MinghuiTue May 19 2026Loading...

In 2026, the People's Liberation Army (PLA) is significantly advancing its military modernization, focusing on comprehensive development across multiple domains. The PLA is transitioning to all-domain operations, with new weapons systems like sixth-generation fighter jets and hypersonic missiles being developed. Military exercises, especially around Taiwan, have become more frequent and realistic, showcasing China's strategic capabilities. AI technology is increasingly integrated into military operations, enhancing overall efficiency and effectiveness.

Li MinghuiTue Apr 07 2026Loading...

Japan Self-Defense Forces deployed improved Type 12 surface-to-ship missile launch units from Kumamoto Prefecture to Iwo Jima in March 2026. This marks a significant shift in Japan's defense policy, allowing for offensive capabilities beyond its territory. The defense budget for 2026 is set to reach 9 trillion yen, reflecting a commitment to enhancing military readiness and infrastructure in response to regional threats, particularly from China and North Korea.

Li MinghuiMon Mar 30 2026Loading...

China announced a defense budget of 1.94 trillion RMB (approximately 282 billion USD) on March 5, 2026, focusing on military modernization and strategic priorities. The budget reflects a 6.9% increase, the lowest in five years, while emphasizing the need for advanced weaponry and military training. This announcement comes amid economic challenges and highlights ongoing tensions with Japan over military spending transparency.

Li MinghuiMon Mar 30 2026Loading...

China's aviation industry is transforming, with the Chengdu Aircraft Industry Group expanding its production capacity significantly. By March 2026, the J-20 stealth fighter's annual output has surpassed 120 aircraft, and by 2027, China plans to produce 300-400 advanced fighters annually. This expansion reflects a broader modernization of China's military industrial base, enhancing its logistical capabilities and military readiness.

Li MinghuiFri Mar 27 2026Loading...

China is expanding its stealth fighter production capacity, with the J-20 facility in Chengdu capable of producing 100 to 120 aircraft annually and a new J-35 complex in Shenyang under construction. This expansion indicates a strategic shift towards large-scale manufacturing, potentially allowing for a total annual output of 300 to 400 aircraft. The developments are expected to significantly alter the air power balance in the Indo-Pacific region by the end of the decade.

Li MinghuiSat Mar 21 2026Loading...