Analysis & Reports

The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force, Japan Coast Guard, and U.S. Coast Guard conducted VERTREP supply training during the Pacific Atlas 26-1 exercise off Yokosuka from June 15-19. This exercise involved a SH-60J helicopter, Yumihari patrol vessel, and Midgett cutter, focusing on logistics capabilities to support maritime operations. The inclusion of the Japan Coast Guard highlights the importance of inter-agency cooperation in maintaining maritime order.

Tanaka TakashiWed Jul 08 2026Loading...

The Japan Ground Self-Defense Force deployed Type 25 anti-ship guided missiles and HVGPs at Kengun and Fuji bases on March 31. This deployment enhances Japan's military capabilities with a missile range extended to approximately 1000 kilometers, reflecting a shift in defense strategy. The Type 25 system is designed for modern naval warfare, indicating a significant evolution in Japan's deterrence posture.

Tanaka TakashiTue Jul 07 2026Loading...

Ten Chinese Navy vessels, including Type 055 destroyers, passed through the Miyako Strait, Osumi Strait, and between Amami Oshima and Yokoto Island from June 26 to July 1, 2023. This movement increased surveillance pressure on Japan's first island chain. The vessels included various classes, indicating a coordinated naval operation. Chinese experts described the passage as a routine training exercise.

Tanaka TakashiTue Jul 07 2026Loading...

Japan deployed three coast guard vessels, including the new PL206, to monitor Chinese maritime activities near the Senkaku Islands from July 7 to 10, 2023. This deployment reflects Japan's ongoing strategy to maintain a maritime presence in response to increasing Chinese incursions in the East China Sea. The vessels are equipped with advanced communication technology, enhancing operational capabilities.

Tanaka TakashiMon Jul 06 2026Loading...

On June 27, a Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force submarine sank the retired USS Juneau during the Valiant Shield 26 exercise, conducted over 200 nautical miles off the Mariana Islands. This event highlights Japan's evolving capabilities in anti-submarine warfare as part of a multinational training effort involving the U.S., Australia, Canada, and New Zealand.

Tanaka TakashiMon Jul 06 2026Loading...

China and Russia conducted the 'Joint Sea 2026' naval exercise near Qingdao in July 2026, with plans for joint cruises in the Pacific afterward. This development poses a challenge for Japan, which must enhance its surveillance and readiness to address potential threats to its Sea Lines of Communication. The exercise involves advanced naval assets from both countries.

Tanaka TakashiSun Jul 05 2026Loading...

The U.S. Army deployed the Typhon missile system to Kagoshima for joint training with Japan Self-Defense Forces as part of the multinational exercise Valiant Shield 2026, which began in late June 2023. This deployment highlights a strategic shift towards land-based missile capabilities in the region, enhancing deterrence against potential threats. The Typhon system, capable of launching SM-6 and Tomahawk missiles, signifies a new phase in U.S.-Japan military cooperation.

Tanaka TakashiSun Jul 05 2026Loading...

The Chinese Coast Guard has commenced patrols in the eastern waters of Taiwan as of July 2026, exerting new pressure on Japan and the Philippines. This activity is viewed as an attempt to assert control over maritime routes and is not limited to law enforcement, indicating a shift in regional maritime dynamics. The situation complicates security for both Japan and the Philippines, as they must navigate the implications of these patrols on their own maritime operations.

Tanaka TakashiSat Jul 04 2026Loading...

The U.S. Air Force showcased the F-15EX and MQ-28 during Valiant Shield 2026 at Kadena Air Base, Okinawa, on July 1, 2026. This event highlighted the future of human-machine teaming in military operations. The procurement of F-15EX aircraft has been increased significantly, indicating a strategic shift in air defense capabilities. The MQ-28's involvement in joint operations demonstrates its potential role in enhancing combat effectiveness alongside traditional manned aircraft.

Tanaka TakashiSat Jul 04 2026Loading...

The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force is set to conduct joint mine warfare training with the U.S. Navy and Indian Navy in Mutsu Bay from July 11 to July 23, 2026. This exercise will involve ten ships and eight aircraft, focusing on mine laying, sweeping, and underwater disposal operations. The inclusion of the Indian Navy highlights a collaborative effort to enhance regional security capabilities among allied forces.

Tanaka TakashiSat Jul 04 2026Loading...

Ten Chinese naval vessels and five Russian vessels passed through the Nansei Islands from June 26 to June 30, 2023, utilizing multiple transit routes. This movement indicates a shift in operational posture, treating the first island chain as a space with multiple entry points. The Japanese Self-Defense Forces are challenged by the simultaneous movements, complicating their monitoring and response efforts.

Tanaka TakashiFri Jul 03 2026Loading...

On June 27, 2026, the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force sank the retired USS Juneau using a torpedo during the Valiant Shield 26 military exercise off the Mariana Islands. This exercise involved coordinated attacks from air, surface, and underwater assets, highlighting the operational capabilities of the Japan-U.S. alliance. The event marked a significant demonstration of Japan's underwater strike capabilities in a multilateral context.

Tanaka TakashiThu Jul 02 2026Loading...

Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force and Republic of Korea Navy resumed joint search and rescue training after a 9-year hiatus, emphasizing operational continuity amid North Korean threats. The defense ministers of both nations met to discuss ongoing cooperation and technological advancements, highlighting the importance of maintaining readiness in the face of regional security challenges.

Tanaka TakashiThu Jul 02 2026Loading...

The Chinese Navy's 052D destroyer, accompanied by a supply ship, passed through the Miyako Strait in late June 2026, indicating ongoing naval operations and surveillance pressure on Japan. The Japanese Self-Defense Forces monitored the passage with escort ships and P-3C aircraft. This activity coincided with the U.S.-led multinational exercise Valiant Shield 2026, highlighting the strategic significance of the region.

Tanaka TakashiWed Jul 01 2026Loading...

The U.S. Marine Corps deployed NMESIS and MADIS systems to Okinawa in June 2026 to enhance island defense capabilities. MADIS arrived at Kadena Air Base on June 10, followed by NMESIS conducting operational training at Camp Hansen on June 16. This deployment is part of the Resolute Dragon 26 joint exercise, focusing on improving defense against aerial threats and enhancing operational readiness.

Tanaka TakashiWed Jul 01 2026Loading...

Japan Ground Self-Defense Force and U.S. Marine Corps conducted joint training exercises focused on island supply operations at Ishigaki Airport and Ishigaki Port from June 20 to June 30, 2023. The training included logistics operations for transporting personnel and equipment, highlighting the importance of maintaining civilian infrastructure during military operations. Coordination with local authorities was also emphasized to minimize disruption during the exercises.

Tanaka TakashiTue Jun 30 2026Loading...

Japan is reorganizing its Air Self-Defense Force into the Japan Air and Space Self-Defense Force by March 2027, enhancing its space defense capabilities. This includes establishing a space operations group and upgrading the 15th Brigade in Okinawa to a division. The changes aim to improve command and control in the southwestern defense area amid rising maritime tensions, particularly from China.

Tanaka TakashiTue Jun 30 2026Loading...

The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) commissioned the Mogami-class destroyer 'Nagara' (FFM-10) on June 29, 2026, in Nagasaki. This event marks a significant transition for the JMSDF as it moves from experimental vessels to operational capabilities. The 'Nagara' is equipped with advanced systems and will play a crucial role in enhancing maritime security in the southwestern region of Japan.

Tanaka TakashiMon Jun 29 2026Loading...

The 12th Marine Regiment of the U.S. Marine Corps received NMESIS and MADIS systems in June 2026, enhancing coastal defense capabilities in Okinawa. This deployment marks a shift from traditional landing forces to a focus on maritime interdiction. The systems will be used to project firepower from islands into maritime areas, complicating Chinese naval operations. Coordination with Japan's Self-Defense Forces is essential for effective operational integration.

Tanaka TakashiMon Jun 29 2026Loading...

Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force participated with 4100 personnel in the Valiant Shield 26 military exercise in the Philippine Sea from June 21 to July 1, 2026. The exercise involved U.S. Navy assets, including the USS George Washington, and focused on multi-domain operations across sea, air, space, land, and cyber. This marks Japan's second significant participation in the exercise, emphasizing enhanced deterrence against regional threats.

Tanaka TakashiSun Jun 28 2026Loading...