Analysis & Reports

The U.S. Army will relocate its Typhon system to Kadena Air Base in Okinawa by mid-October 2026, as part of the 'Orient Shield 26' joint exercise. The Typhon system, capable of launching Tomahawk missiles with a range of 1,600 km, will enhance deterrence capabilities in the southwestern islands. This move includes the storage of four launchers and 16 missiles, alongside the HIMARS system.

Tanaka TakashiSun Sep 27 2026Loading...

Japan Self-Defense Forces deployed Type 12 long-range missiles for the first time during the Japan-U.S. joint exercise in October 2026, operationalizing defense of the first island chain. This deployment is part of a strategic response to China's activities, emphasizing the need for rapid decision-making and coordination between U.S. and Japanese forces. The exercise will assess the effectiveness of these new weapon systems in a military context.

Tanaka TakashiSun Sep 27 2026Loading...

North Korea launched two short-range ballistic missiles towards the East Coast on September 20, 2026. This marks the second missile launch within a week, raising concerns about the effectiveness of the Japan-U.S.-South Korea missile defense systems. The details regarding the missiles' range and altitude remain undisclosed, highlighting challenges in intelligence and surveillance capabilities.

Tanaka TakashiSat Sep 26 2026Loading...

The U.S. Air Force's F-35 will participate in the Tarang Shakti multinational air exercise starting on September 26, 2026, at Jodhpur, India, alongside India's F-2A and other aircraft from eight nations. This exercise aims to improve operational interoperability and tactical capabilities among the participating air forces, amidst growing regional tensions with China. Japan's deployment of the F-2A marks a significant step in bilateral military cooperation with India.

Tanaka TakashiSat Sep 26 2026Loading...

On September 20, 2026, the USS Canberra and P-8A Poseidon participated in a joint maritime cooperation exercise in Yokosuka, involving eight countries including Japan and the Philippines. The exercise included disaster response tabletop exercises and aimed to enhance interoperability among naval forces in the South China Sea. The focus was on establishing common procedures and information sharing among the participating nations.

Tanaka TakashiFri Sep 25 2026Loading...

The Chinese Navy conducted training exercises with the 054A frigate in the Japan Sea on August 22, 2026, focusing on anti-submarine warfare and operational readiness. This development indicates a shift in China's naval strategy, emphasizing both coastal defense and open sea operations. Japan is urged to adapt its defense strategies in response to the growing capabilities of the Chinese Navy.

Tanaka TakashiFri Sep 25 2026Loading...

Japan's Defense Minister announced on September 11, 2023, that the country is considering the acquisition of nuclear submarines (SSNs), marking a significant shift in its defense strategy. This potential move could enhance Japan's maritime capabilities and its role in the U.S.-Japan alliance, particularly in monitoring the Pacific region. However, Japan's nuclear policy poses challenges to this transition, emphasizing peaceful use and political resistance to military applications.

Tanaka TakashiThu Sep 24 2026Loading...

The U.S., Japan, and South Korea conducted joint military training named Freedom Edge 26 from September 11 to 22, 2026, focusing on naval operations, missile defense, and information sharing. The training aimed to enhance cooperation in response to security challenges, including North Korea's actions and maritime law enforcement. A joint statement emphasized the importance of maintaining peace in the Taiwan Strait and protecting legitimate shipping activities.

Tanaka TakashiWed Sep 23 2026Loading...

Japan's Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) deployed F-2A aircraft in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, from September 9 to September 22, 2026, marking the first operational use of Japanese fighter jets in India. The exercise involved collaboration with Indian Air Force aircraft, focusing on operational planning and maintenance. This deployment signifies a strengthening of military cooperation between Japan and India, particularly in the context of regional security concerns.

Tanaka TakashiWed Sep 23 2026Loading...

North Korea launched two ballistic missiles from Wonsan on September 20, 2026. The first missile traveled about 440 kilometers, while the second reached approximately 590 kilometers, both landing outside Japan's Exclusive Economic Zone. This event is part of a series of missile launches, with North Korea reportedly increasing its missile activity this year.

Tanaka TakashiTue Sep 22 2026Loading...

On September 18, 2026, Japan Air Self-Defense Force and United States Air Force conducted a joint tactical training exercise over the Pacific Ocean, involving 9 F-22s, 4 F-15s, and 1 KC-135. This exercise aimed to enhance air defense cooperation amid rising tensions, as evidenced by North Korea's subsequent launch of two ballistic missiles. The training focused on air-to-air combat capabilities and operational readiness.

Tanaka TakashiTue Sep 22 2026Loading...

North Korea fired two short-range ballistic missiles towards the Sea of Japan on September 20, 2026. The launch followed a trilateral military exercise involving the U.S., Japan, and South Korea, and is interpreted as a test of their maritime alertness. No damage was reported, and the missiles did not land in Japanese territory or its exclusive economic zone.

Tanaka TakashiMon Sep 21 2026Loading...

North Korea launched two ballistic missiles from its east coast on September 20, 2026, landing outside Japan's Exclusive Economic Zone. The launches, occurring three hours apart, highlight potential vulnerabilities in Japan's Aegis defense system and are seen as a practical test rather than a mere show of force. This event follows recent discussions between Japanese and U.S. defense officials regarding security cooperation.

Tanaka TakashiMon Sep 21 2026Loading...

On September 18, 2026, the Japan Air Self-Defense Force and the U.S. Air Force conducted tactical training in the Pacific Ocean east of Okinawa, involving 9 F-22s, 4 F-15s, and 1 KC-135. The exercise aimed to strengthen deterrence and operational capabilities between the two nations, focusing on air superiority and logistical support.

Tanaka TakashiSun Sep 20 2026Loading...

Japan and the United States are enhancing security cooperation through their 8th defense ministerial meeting on September 19, 2026, focusing on operational integration by 2026. The discussions highlight the need for improved coordination in response to North Korean missile activities and emphasize Japan's role in regional security beyond mere base support. The report indicates ongoing efforts to strengthen military ties amid evolving security challenges in the region.

Tanaka TakashiSun Sep 20 2026Loading...

Japan Self-Defense Forces plans to introduce 52,000 unmanned systems from FY 2027 to FY 2031, including various types of drones and missiles. This shift aims to enhance operational capabilities while reducing reliance on manned platforms. The strategy focuses on long-range attacks and reconnaissance, particularly in response to Chinese naval activities. However, the success of this initiative hinges on effective communication and operational support.

Tanaka TakashiSat Sep 19 2026Loading...

North Korea conducted a joint firepower drill on September 12, 2026, launching multiple ballistic missiles from its eastern coast. The exercise involved a combination of missiles, drones, and artillery, aimed at testing the missile defense capabilities of Japan, the U.S., and South Korea. Kim Yo Jong issued a warning of a stronger response to U.S.-led military drills, indicating a potential shift in North Korea's military strategy.

Tanaka TakashiSat Sep 19 2026Loading...

The U.S. Navy proposed a strategy to target China's Fujian aircraft carrier, treating it as a potential threat rather than a defensive asset. This strategy, reported by CSIS on September 17, 2026, involves utilizing 300 unmanned vessels alongside submarines and missile systems to create operational risks for China in the South China Sea and around Taiwan. Japan is expected to play a significant role in monitoring and supporting these operations.

Tanaka TakashiFri Sep 18 2026Loading...

An RQ-4B Global Hawk UAV of the Japan Air Self-Defense Force crashed in the Japan Sea on September 15, 2026, leading to a significant reduction in ISR capabilities. The loss of communication occurred shortly before the crash, and the cause remains unknown. This incident raises concerns about Japan's surveillance operations amid ongoing tensions with North Korea and China, as the country plans to introduce MQ-9B SeaGuardian UAVs starting in 2027 to bolster its capabilities.

Tanaka TakashiFri Sep 18 2026Loading...

Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force announced the first submarine training in the United States for FY2026, focusing on anti-submarine warfare collaboration with the U.S. Navy. The training will involve Soryu-class submarines and aims to enhance data exchange between detecting and hiding parties. Differences in acoustic data formats and communication protocols could impact operational efficiency.

Tanaka TakashiWed Sep 16 2026Loading...