Analysis & Reports
AI-assisted analysis of military-related information from public sources
The first ship of the 052D class, Kunming, leads the 49th escort fleet as the Chinese Navy returns to the Gulf of Aden after 10 months.
The People's Liberation Army Navy deployed the 49th escort fleet, consisting of the Kunming destroyer, Yueyang frigate, and Luoma Lake supply ship, to the Gulf of Aden on August 12, 2023. This marks a return to the region after a 10-month hiatus, reflecting a shift in operational focus for the Chinese Navy. The fleet is tasked with escorting vessels in the area, continuing China's long-standing anti-piracy efforts.
Li MinghuiWed Aug 12 2026Loading...
China-Russia Joint Aerial Patrol: PLA H-6K and Y-20 Enter Western Pacific Training Chain
On June 27, the Chinese People's Liberation Army Air Force and the Russian Air Force conducted their 11th joint air strategic patrol across the Sea of Japan, East China Sea, and Western Pacific. The operation involved multiple aircraft types, including H-6K bombers and Y-20 tankers, showcasing enhanced military cooperation and capabilities. This patrol serves as a pressure test for regional adversaries, particularly Japan and Taiwan, while demonstrating the growing operational integration of Chinese and Russian air forces.
Li MinghuiSun Jun 28 2026Loading...
Liaoning Aircraft Carrier Returns to Port After 40 Days of Open Sea Training, PLA Aircraft Carrier and 075 Amphibious Ship Conduct Joint Training for the First Time
The Liaoning aircraft carrier returned to Qingdao on June 22 after 40 days of training, marking the first public joint exercise with the Anhui amphibious assault ship. The training involved various tactical operations, including live-fire exercises, in the South China Sea and Western Pacific, while being monitored by Japanese naval forces. This exercise aimed to enhance coordination between different naval platforms and tested the PLA Navy's operational capabilities.
Li MinghuiTue Jun 23 2026Loading...Liaoning Aircraft Carrier Conducts 170 Takeoffs and Landings in 3 Days, PLA 054B Frigate's First Escort Mission Exposes Shortcomings in Deep Sea Operations
The Liaoning aircraft carrier conducted approximately 170 takeoffs and landings of J-15 fighter jets and helicopters from May 26 to 28, 2023, in the Western Pacific, east of the Philippines. The 054B frigate participated in these exercises for the first time, indicating an upgrade in the People's Liberation Army Navy's operational capabilities. These activities are part of China's ongoing efforts to improve its naval presence and operational readiness in the region.
Li MinghuiThu Jun 04 2026Loading...054B First Time Accompanies Liaoning Ship Out of the First Island Chain, PLA Aircraft Carrier Group Fills Anti-Submarine Shortcomings
The People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) conducted training exercises in the Western Pacific with the Liaoning aircraft carrier group, which included the new 054B frigate 545. This marked the first public deployment of the 054B alongside the carrier, with activities observed on May 25-26, 2023, including aircraft takeoffs and landings. The exercises took place southwest of Okinotorishima, highlighting the strategic significance of the region.
Li MinghuiSun May 31 2026Loading...
Type 075 Anhui Ship Crosses Miyako Strait in May, PLA Amphibious Ships Begin to Keep Up with Aircraft Carrier's Open Sea Rhythm
On May 22, 2023, two Chinese naval vessels, including the Type 075 amphibious assault ship and Type 054A frigate, were observed sailing southeast through the Miyako Strait into the Western Pacific. This movement is part of a broader exercise involving the People's Liberation Army Navy, which also includes the Liaoning aircraft carrier operating in the same region.
Li MinghuiWed May 27 2026Loading...Liaoning Aircraft Carrier's Four Training Exercises in the Western Pacific Exposed: The Real Challenge of the J-35 on the Ski-Jump Deck is Not Takeoff
The Liaoning aircraft carrier group conducted tactical flight training and live-fire exercises in the Western Pacific on May 19, 2023. The exercises included comprehensive rescue training, reflecting a shift towards continuous operational capability. The J-35 stealth fighter is being assessed for compatibility with the carrier's launch system, amid rising tensions with Japan.
Li MinghuiSat May 23 2026Loading...
