Analysis & Reports

The People's Liberation Army Rocket Force showcased the DF-17 missile in a video on July 8, 2026, emphasizing its operational capabilities. The DF-17, with a range of 1800 to 2500 kilometers, is designed to evade traditional missile defense systems and can target key military nodes in the first island chain. This display is interpreted as a deterrent response to recent military exercises by the U.S. and its allies in the region.

Li MinghuiSat Jul 11 2026Loading...

The Long March 10B rocket successfully completed its first flight and controlled recovery on July 10 at the Wenchang launch site in Hainan. This marks China's first achievement in controlled rocket stage recovery, enhancing its capabilities for deploying satellites to low Earth orbit. The rocket can carry 16 tons, which is significant for military applications in satellite communications and reconnaissance.

Li MinghuiSat Jul 11 2026Loading...

The People's Liberation Army Navy conducted a test launch of a submarine-launched missile in the Pacific Ocean on July 6, 2023, at 12:01 PM. The missile reportedly traveled approximately 7000 kilometers, landing near Nauru and Tuvalu. This marks the first known test of such a missile by China since 1982, demonstrating advancements in its nuclear capabilities. The launch was monitored by Taiwan's radar systems and is part of routine military training, although it raises concerns regarding regional security and international diplomatic implications.

Li MinghuiFri Jul 10 2026Loading...

Taiwan's radar successfully tracked a Chinese submarine-launched missile shortly after its launch from the South China Sea on July 10. This event marks the first known test of a submarine-launched missile by China since 1982, highlighting advancements in China's nuclear deterrence capabilities. The Taiwanese AN/FPS-115 Pave Paws radar, which can detect missiles up to 5000 km, played a crucial role in this tracking. China also informed several nations about the test, indicating a political dimension to the demonstration of its military capabilities.

Li MinghuiFri Jul 10 2026Loading...

The People's Liberation Army Navy and the Russian Pacific Fleet conducted the 'Maritime Joint-2026' exercise from July 6 to July 13, 2026, near Qingdao in the Yellow Sea. This joint operation focused on testing anti-submarine and air defense capabilities, involving multiple naval vessels from both nations. The exercise took place in a complex maritime environment, emphasizing the need for effective coordination between the two fleets.

Li MinghuiThu Jul 09 2026Loading...

On July 6, 2023, the People's Liberation Army Navy conducted a test launch of a long-range missile from a nuclear submarine in the Pacific Ocean. The missile, which carried a simulated warhead, flew approximately 7000 kilometers, landing near Nauru and Tuvalu. This marks China's first known submarine-launched ballistic missile test since 1982, raising concerns among regional nations about nuclear proliferation in the South Pacific.

Li MinghuiWed Jul 08 2026Loading...

On July 6, 2026, the People's Liberation Army Navy conducted a test launch of a submarine-launched ballistic missile from a strategic nuclear submarine, traveling approximately 7000 kilometers towards the Pacific Ocean, landing near Nauru and Tuvalu. This event raised concerns from New Zealand and Australia regarding its implications for the South Pacific nuclear-free zone, despite China's assertion that the missile was a training simulation.

Li MinghuiWed Jul 08 2026Loading...

The People's Liberation Army (PLA) conducted live-fire exercises with Type 05 amphibious armored vehicles in the Taiwan Strait on June 25, 2023. The exercises focused on live-fire capabilities while in motion on water, highlighting the PLA's emphasis on integrating firepower and logistics for amphibious assaults. Western nations have expressed concerns regarding Chinese naval activities in the region, indicating heightened military scrutiny.

Li MinghuiTue Jul 07 2026Loading...

The Nanning and Hengyang ships of the People's Liberation Army Navy completed a 5-day visit to Hong Kong on July 6, coinciding with the 29th anniversary of Hong Kong's return. The visit featured a 052D destroyer and a 054A frigate, showcasing China's naval capabilities while serving as a public relations event. This activity reflects the ongoing modernization and operational readiness of the Chinese navy.

Li MinghuiMon Jul 06 2026Loading...

Wang Gang was appointed as the commander of the People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) on July 3, amid ongoing pressures for equipment modernization. The Air Force is shifting towards a more integrated force structure, emphasizing stealth and advanced systems. Concurrently, anti-corruption measures are tightening oversight on procurement and personnel decisions, impacting the pace of modernization efforts.

Li MinghuiMon Jul 06 2026Loading...

Taiwan has initiated a 14-day training program for reserve military personnel, which now includes instruction on drones and the HIMARS rocket system. This change aims to enhance the integration of reserve forces with their original military roles and improve the operational effectiveness of advanced military equipment. The Taiwanese Armed Forces are responding to the need for better utilization of new technologies in their defense strategy.

Li MinghuiSun Jul 05 2026Loading...

The Fujian aircraft carrier conducted its first live naval training exercise in Fujian Province, involving multiple vessels and aircraft including J-35 and KJ-600. The exercises focused on carrier operations, aircraft launches, and joint search and rescue missions, marking a significant step in the operational readiness of the People's Liberation Army Navy. This event highlights the transition of the Fujian from a test platform to a combat-ready naval asset.

Li MinghuiSun Jul 05 2026Loading...

The PLA demonstrated a modular electromagnetic catapult system for launching drones using three connected 8-wheeled vehicles in Beijing on July 3. This system allows for transportable and camouflaged drone launch facilities, aiming to produce 2000 units annually. It enhances the operational capabilities of fixed-wing drones, reducing reliance on traditional runways, though challenges in power supply and maintenance remain.

Li MinghuiSat Jul 04 2026Loading...

The third Yue Lu Arms Control Forum is set to take place from July 7-8 at the National Defense Science and Technology University, involving approximately 140 representatives discussing military control cooperation and global governance. This forum marks a significant shift in China's approach to military modernization, emphasizing the importance of technology governance and verification mechanisms in military control discussions.

Li MinghuiFri Jul 03 2026Loading...

The Fujian aircraft carrier's training in the Taiwan Strait on June 23 revealed significant deficiencies in the Chinese Navy's carrier-based aviation capabilities, indicating a need for at least 100 additional aircraft. The training highlighted compatibility issues among different aircraft types and the operational readiness of the fleet. The Chinese Navy is moving towards establishing a more effective carrier-based aviation system, but challenges remain in achieving sustained operational capability.

Li MinghuiFri Jul 03 2026Loading...

The Southern Theater Command of the People's Liberation Army conducted maritime and aerial patrols around Huangyan Island on July 2, 2026, showcasing a coordinated operation involving H-6K bombers, J-16 fighters, KJ-500 early warning aircraft, and various frigates. This operation emphasizes the integration of anti-submarine capabilities and data link systems, indicating a shift towards regular military readiness in the South China Sea.

Li MinghuiThu Jul 02 2026Loading...

The J-35 production number reached 350030, indicating that the People's Liberation Army Navy's stealth carrier-based aircraft has entered the verification phase as of July 1, 2023. This development suggests that the J-35 is moving beyond prototype stages towards operational readiness, with implications for the formation of a complete carrier air wing by 2026. Challenges remain in engine reliability and maintenance of stealth features, which are critical for operational effectiveness.

Li MinghuiThu Jul 02 2026Loading...

The Fujian aircraft carrier conducted cross-sea training in the Taiwan Strait and South China Sea, accompanied by two destroyers. This training involved multiple aircraft types, including J-15T and J-35, performing electromagnetic launches and landings. The exercises aim to test the carrier's systems under diverse maritime conditions as part of routine military operations.

Li MinghuiWed Jul 01 2026Loading...

The People's Liberation Army Rocket Force publicly showcased the first footage of the Dongfeng-17 hypersonic missile launch during a live-fire exercise on July 1. This event coincided with the 60th anniversary of the strategic missile forces and highlighted the missile's operational capabilities, including its range of 1800 to 2500 kilometers. The exercise demonstrated mobile launch capabilities and training under complex conditions, emphasizing the missile's role in targeting critical military infrastructure.

Li MinghuiWed Jul 01 2026Loading...

The Fujian aircraft carrier conducted its first training exercises in the South China Sea after entering service in June 2026, testing the capabilities of J-35 fighter jets and KJ-600 early warning aircraft. This operation is part of the People's Liberation Army Navy's strategy to enhance its military presence in the region, particularly concerning Taiwan. The exercises indicate a shift from mere sea trials to operational readiness and political signaling.

Li MinghuiTue Jun 30 2026Loading...