Analysis & Reports

The Fujian aircraft carrier, commissioned on November 5, 2025, has conducted extensive naval training exercises, including multiple aircraft launch and recovery operations. It is currently optimizing its systems and preparing for more complex joint operations. The carrier's passage through the Taiwan Strait is part of routine military training, aimed at enhancing its operational readiness and combat capabilities.

USS Theodore Roosevelt docked at Changi Naval Base in Singapore on November 6, marking its final stop before deployment to the Middle East. The carrier departed from San Diego, California on September 27 and is set to join USS Washington and USS Bush in the region.

Taiwan reported a surge of 49 Chinese military aircraft in its air-defense identification zone, followed by a drop to 11 aircraft and 13 vessels. This activity is part of a pressure campaign by the Chinese military, aimed at testing Taiwan's readiness without escalating to an invasion. The presence of both aircraft and naval vessels complicates Taiwan's defense strategy and indicates a sustained military presence in the region.

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The People's Liberation Army conducted military exercises near Taiwan in November 2026, involving 49 aircraft and over 100 naval vessels. The Liaoning and Fujian aircraft carriers were deployed in the Philippine Sea and South China Sea, respectively. This operation is characterized as a 'silent drill' aimed at testing Taiwan's military response capabilities. Following the initial surge, Taiwan noted a reduction in aircraft presence, indicating a potential assessment of Taiwan's reaction.

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The Fujian aircraft carrier is actively engaged in naval training exercises in the Taiwan Strait, focusing on enhancing its operational capabilities. As of November 5, 2023, the carrier has completed extensive system tests and is preparing for more complex joint operations with other naval vessels. The training aims to improve its combat readiness and effectiveness in potential conflict scenarios.

On November 5, 2023, the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force deployed 16-type maneuver combat vehicles to Naha, Okinawa, marking the first deployment of this equipment in the region. This action coincided with local protests organized by citizen groups opposing the deployment and the planned upgrade of the 15th Brigade to a division by March 2027. Protesters expressed concerns over urban warfare implications and called for resistance against the military expansion.

The U.S. military in Okinawa has extended the curfew for personnel until December 7 due to recent criminal incidents involving soldiers. This decision follows the arrest of a soldier for robbery and murder, prompting Japanese officials to demand stricter military discipline. The curfew restricts movement from midnight to 5 AM and aims to prevent further incidents.

On November 6, 2023, the People's Liberation Army (PLA) announced its commitment to studying and implementing the directives from the 20th Central Committee's Fifth Plenary Session. The military aims to unify its thoughts and actions with the Party's strategic deployments, enhancing the Party's leadership within the armed forces. This initiative is recognized as a significant political task for the PLA and the entire Party, focusing on strengthening military capabilities and political alignment.

Malabar 2026 commenced on November 5, 2026, in Yokosuka, Japan, featuring naval exercises among Japan, the U.S., Australia, and India. The exercise includes approximately 200 personnel and various naval assets, such as P-8A Poseidon aircraft and San Antonio-class ships. This marks the sixth participation of all four nations in the Malabar exercises, emphasizing interoperability and shared operational capabilities.

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The August 1st Air Demonstration Team conducted an air show over the Huangyaguan Great Wall at 11:11 AM, featuring six J-10 fighter jets. This event celebrated the 77th anniversary of the People's Air Force and included low-altitude flyovers and smoke trails. It marks the team's second flyover of a world landmark, following previous demonstrations in 2018 and 2024.

The People's Liberation Army (PLA) reduced its aircraft activity in the Taiwan Strait by 51.1% from January 1 to August 19, 2026, while the Chinese Coast Guard increased its presence significantly. The number of Chinese vessels operating in the area rose from 183 to 457, indicating a strategic shift towards maritime enforcement. This change poses new challenges for Taiwan's maritime response capabilities without escalating tensions into military conflict.

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The Malabar 2026 naval exercise began on November 5, 2026, in Yokosuka, Japan, involving the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force, United States Navy, Indian Navy, and Royal Australian Navy. The exercise focuses on anti-submarine warfare and maritime security, running until November 12. JMSDF vessels 'Ise' and 'Mogami' are participating, alongside US and allied frigates, to enhance operational connectivity in response to regional security challenges.

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The PLA Navy is undergoing a significant purge affecting senior ranks, which may impact operational readiness. On 5 November 2026, the Fujian carrier completed cross-theatre trials and is progressing towards full combat capability. The ongoing personnel changes raise concerns about command continuity and the effectiveness of joint operations in potential Taiwan contingencies.

Li MinghuiThu Nov 05 2026Loading...

The Fujian aircraft carrier is advancing towards full combat capability through high-intensity training. It has completed various exercises with multiple aircraft types and is now operating in the Taiwan Strait, South China Sea, East China Sea, and Yellow Sea. The carrier, commissioned on November 5, 2022, represents China's first domestically designed electromagnetic aircraft carrier and signifies a new era for the Chinese navy with three operational carriers.

China is conducting a naval surge with over 100 vessels and 21 to 22 military aircraft around Taiwan in 2026, practicing blockade tactics. This operation aims to create a perception of restricted access to Taiwan's waters without formally declaring a blockade. The People's Liberation Army (PLA) is testing Taiwan's response capabilities and the reactions of the United States and regional allies.

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The Chinese military increased its activity in the Taiwan Strait, with 49 aircraft reported in a single day, including 31 crossing the median line. The People's Liberation Army Navy deployed over 100 vessels in the Western Pacific, with the Fujian and Liaoning aircraft carriers operating in the region. This coordinated military presence suggests a shift towards a multi-directional pressure strategy against Taiwan.

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The Fujian aircraft carrier was officially commissioned on November 5, 2025, marking a significant milestone for the People's Liberation Army Navy. Over the past year, it has conducted various trials and training exercises, including operations in the Taiwan Strait and South China Sea. The carrier's advanced electromagnetic catapult system enhances its capabilities, allowing for a diverse range of aircraft operations.

The Fujian aircraft carrier, commissioned on November 5, 2022, has successfully completed cross-sea training exercises in the Taiwan Strait, South China Sea, East China Sea, and Yellow Sea. It has demonstrated capabilities for long-range maritime operations and is equipped with an electromagnetic catapult system. This marks a significant advancement in China's naval capabilities as it transitions into a three-carrier fleet.

The People's Liberation Army (PLA) mobilized over 100 ships and 22 aircraft in the Pacific, indicating potential preparations for a blockade against Taiwan. On November 4, 2026, Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense reported these movements, highlighting a significant increase in PLA naval activity. The mobilization suggests a strategic shift towards testing blockade capabilities rather than an immediate assault.

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Japan's Ground Self-Defense Force plans to integrate a division-level command system for missile and artillery launches by fiscal year 2030 to enhance island defense capabilities. The project, led by Fujitsu, includes a budget request of over 17.9 billion yen. This system aims to improve response times against coordinated attacks by visualizing enemy positions and troop deployments on a single screen.