Analysis & Reports

Female soldiers from the 78th Group Army in China successfully completed live-fire training with automatic rifles, precision sniper rifles, and shotguns for the first time. The training, aimed at enhancing their military skills, resulted in a 100% success rate for sniper rifle shooting. The exercise involved rigorous physical and mental challenges, showcasing the soldiers' determination and capability.

Japan, the Netherlands, and the United States conducted joint military exercises involving F-35A fighter jets at Misawa Air Base in Aomori Prefecture from March to April 2023. The Netherlands deployed 5 fighter jets and 1 tanker aircraft for this historic event, aimed at enhancing cooperative defense capabilities amid rising security concerns in Europe. This collaboration reflects a growing consensus on mutual security between Japan and European nations following the Ukraine crisis.

The Southern Theater Command Naval Aviation conducted air combat training with J-11B aircraft from June 12 to 14, 2023, in the South China Sea. Concurrently, Z-20 and Z-20T helicopters engaged in high-altitude training, while Mengshi armored vehicles performed long-distance maneuvers. This indicates a focus on operational readiness and the integration of older and newer military platforms.

Li MinghuiMon Jun 15 2026Loading...

The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) deployed the 2nd Surface Unit, consisting of Kaga, Fuyuzuki, and Mashu, from Kure for training and operations with F-35B aircraft. This deployment is part of the Indo-Pacific Deployment 2026, scheduled from April 13 to September 16, 2026. Notably, only the Kongo is listed as a participating Japanese ship in RIMPAC 2026, indicating a shift in mission focus.

Tanaka TakashiMon Jun 15 2026Loading...

Japan plans to reform its Air Self-Defense Force into a Space Self-Defense Force by 2026, expanding its security operations to include space. This change, the first in the Self-Defense Forces' name since 1954, has raised public concerns about military expansion and its implications for civilian budgets. The Space Operations Unit, established in 2020, is expected to grow from 670 to approximately 880 personnel by 2026.

The U.S. Navy is restarting reconnaissance flights using P-8 Poseidon patrol aircraft from Wake Island, scheduled to begin between June 15 and November 30 as part of Navy Summer Exercise 26. Task Force 72 will oversee the operation, which includes support missions such as refueling and air traffic control. The airfield will also accommodate passenger and cargo aircraft during this period.

The People's Liberation Army tested the QBU201 sniper rifle and QJC88 machine gun, demonstrating their capabilities in hitting targets at long distances. The QBU201 can accurately strike targets at 1000 meters, while the QJC88 machine gun maintains a high rate of fire and is effective against various targets. These tests showcase the advanced technology and effectiveness of China's new military firearms.

The U.S. Army tested unmanned surface vessels to screen a logistics support vessel six miles off Casiguran Port during Salaknib 2026. Approximately 17,000 troops participated in the exercise, which involved the movement of Philippine Army vehicles over 260 miles. This operation underscores the logistical challenges of maintaining supply lines in a potential conflict in the Western Pacific.

Marcus ChenSun Jun 14 2026Loading...

The U.S. Navy reestablished Submarine Squadron 3 (CSS-3) at HMAS Stirling in Perth to support rotational deployments of U.S. and UK nuclear submarines starting in 2027. This move enhances military cooperation under the AUKUS security pact, with Australia investing $8 billion to expand the base and create jobs. Training for Australian personnel is ongoing to ensure operational readiness for the new submarine force.

U.S. Army soldiers operated a swarm of autonomous boats in Casiguran Sound during Exercise Salaknib 2026, providing maritime security and real-time surveillance data. The exercise involved approximately 7,000 troops from the U.S. and allied nations, demonstrating the integration of autonomous systems into military operations. The autonomous boats monitored the environment around an Army Logistics Support Vessel transporting armored personnel carriers, enhancing situational awareness for commanders ashore.

On June 10, the Taiwan Army conducted a live-fire exercise near the Dajia River estuary in Taichung, launching 32 training rockets from HIMARS towards the Taiwan Strait. This exercise aimed to showcase rapid deployment and firing capabilities, although the rockets used were not operational GMLRS. The ongoing military activities in the region indicate continued pressure from the Chinese military.

Li MinghuiSun Jun 14 2026Loading...

On June 12, 2026, a Chinese Y-9 reconnaissance aircraft and a TB-001 UAV conducted simultaneous flights in the East China Sea, prompting Japan's Air Self-Defense Force to scramble fighters. This incident reflects an ongoing trend of increased Chinese military activity in the region, with a total of 59 emergency scrambles reported in May 2026 alone. The TB-001 UAV is noted for its reconnaissance capabilities and potential involvement in missile operations.

Tanaka TakashiSun Jun 14 2026Loading...

A certain brigade of the Eastern Theater Air Force conducted flight training to test pilots' tactical skills and enhance combat readiness. This training is part of ongoing military operations to ensure preparedness.

The People's Liberation Army Navy conducted sea trials for a 155mm naval gun on the Wu Yunduo test ship near Dalian on June 13. This development raises questions about the role of larger caliber naval artillery in modern naval warfare, particularly in terms of cost-effectiveness compared to missiles. The gun aims to enhance fire support capabilities, especially in scenarios requiring sustained firepower.

Li MinghuiSun Jun 14 2026Loading...

The Shanwei Maritime Safety Administration issued a warning for live ammunition firing in the South China Sea from June 15 to June 16, prohibiting entry into the area daily from 6 AM to 8 PM.

Chinese Navy's 052D destroyer and 796 AGI conducted monitoring operations near Okinawa and Amami Oshima from June 6 to 10, 2026. The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force observed these vessels, which were involved in intelligence gathering activities. This operation indicates a strategic focus on assessing Japan's response to naval movements in the region.

Tanaka TakashiSun Jun 14 2026Loading...

The Dagang Maritime Safety Administration announced military training in the Bohai Sea from June 15 at 11:00 to June 18 at 15:00, prohibiting entry into the area.

CNS Liaoning conducted patrol operations in the Philippine Sea, 350 nautical miles east of Luzon, in June 2023. The formation included the Type 055 cruiser CNS Wuxi, Type 052D destroyer CNS Kaifeng, frigate CNS Luohe, and support ship CNS Hulunhu. The U.S. carrier USS George Washington was also present in the area, highlighting the strategic implications of the Chinese naval presence. Taiwan conducted live-fire drills with HIMARS, further complicating the regional security dynamics.

Marcus ChenSat Jun 13 2026Loading...

Li Jinbo, a seasoned pilot in the People's Liberation Army Air Force, has accumulated nearly 4000 flight hours and received multiple commendations for his service. He is currently focused on training new pilots, emphasizing the importance of operational readiness and loyalty. His experiences highlight the challenges and pressures faced by military aviators in China.

China has developed and upgraded its early warning aircraft, starting with the KJ-1 in 1971. The KJ-500 features advanced radar technology, while the KJ-600 is now part of the aircraft carrier strike group. The introduction of the Yunyou-20 refueling aircraft enhances the operational range of the KJ-500A, allowing for extended missions in strategic areas.