Analysis & Reports
AI-assisted analysis of military-related information from public sources
China Airshow to be Held in December, Over 3,000 Exhibits, Multiple Types of Military Equipment to Make a Grand Debut in Zhuhai
The 16th China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition will occur in Zhuhai from December 7-13, 2024, showcasing over 3000 pieces of military and civilian aerospace equipment. The People's Liberation Army Air Force will prominently feature new military technologies, including the J-35A fighter jet. A new maritime display area will also be introduced, enhancing the exhibition's scope and international participation.
China builds a lighter cousin of the U.S. HIMARS
China has developed a new light, highly mobile rocket launcher based on the Dongfeng Mengshi MV3 tactical truck, capable of firing 20 rounds of 122 mm rockets up to 40 km. This system allows airborne and light infantry units to deploy rocket artillery in challenging terrains, enhancing their operational capabilities. The design features a modular launch pod for quick reloads, making it a significant addition to the People's Liberation Army's artillery capabilities.
North Korea unveils copy of Canadian armored vehicle
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un opened the Defense Revolution Museum on October 11, 2023, showcasing a new armored vehicle resembling the Canadian Roshel Senator. The museum features various military equipment, including the Hwasong-20 intercontinental ballistic missile and drones. Kim vowed to continue developing the country's weapons, highlighting North Korea's ongoing military advancements.
US Army aspires to create Indo-Pacific manufacturing hub in Korea
The U.S. Army is establishing an advanced manufacturing hub in Korea to enhance logistics and supply capabilities for troops in the Indo-Pacific region. Col. Scott Carpenter aims to make Korea the advanced manufacturing center for INDOPACOM, utilizing both additive and subtractive manufacturing techniques. The Eighth Army is set to receive significant funding for advanced manufacturing machines to support local and regional military operations.
The Burden of North Korea's 910-Kilometer Ballistic Missile Flight on Maritime Surveillance by Japan, the U.S., and South Korea in 2026
North Korea launched multiple ballistic missiles from near Pyongyang on October 12, 2026, around 9:20 AM. At least two missiles were confirmed, with one flying over 910 kilometers and landing outside Japan's EEZ. This launch is seen as a response to South Korea's recent hypersonic missile test, complicating the tracking and response efforts of Japan, the U.S., and South Korea.
Tanaka TakashiTue Oct 13 2026Loading...The Drone and Anti-Drone Systematic Demonstration Platform to Debut at the Zhuhai Airshow
The 16th China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition is being held in Zhuhai, featuring 90 companies and 40 aircraft. The event will showcase a platform for drones and counter-drone systems, with dynamic demonstrations highlighting the latest developments in counter-drone technology. Several new drones are also scheduled for flight demonstrations.
Zhuhai Airshow Opens Maritime Exhibition Area for the First Time, Static Display of Active Navy Vessels
On October 13, the People's Liberation Army Navy showcased active naval vessels and land equipment at the Gao Lan Port during the 16th China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition in Zhuhai. The exhibition featured a static display of naval vessels and included a dynamic performance area. The event required online reservations for entry and highlighted various military equipment, including a new 500-ton unmanned vessel.
A Batch of Self-Developed Heavy Equipment from Our Country Will Be Showcased at the Zhuhai Airshow
On October 13, the 16th China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition commenced in Zhuhai, showcasing advanced aerospace and defense technologies. China Aviation Industry Group presented over 370 products, while China Electronics Technology Group displayed 550 cutting-edge items, including military equipment. China Aviation Engine Corporation introduced nearly 90 types of aircraft engines, many of which were unveiled for the first time.
A Batch of Mature Main Battle Equipment from the Air Force to Make a Collective Debut at the Zhuhai Airshow
The Chinese Air Force showcased multiple advanced military equipment types at the 16th China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition in Zhuhai on October 13. The display included reconnaissance aircraft, early warning systems, and unmanned systems, emphasizing the modernization of the air force's operational capabilities. Flight performances were designed to reflect real combat training and readiness.
The 16th China Airshow to be Held in December, Air Force's Various Main Battle Equipment to Make Their Debut at the China Airshow
The People's Liberation Army Air Force will showcase various upgraded combat equipment and new operational capabilities at the 16th China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition in Beijing in December 2023. The exhibition will feature static displays and flight performances, highlighting the Air Force's advancements in training and combat readiness. Other military branches will also participate, demonstrating a comprehensive display of military capabilities.
The 16th China Airshow to be Held in December, Navy Active Equipment to Make Large-Scale Appearance
The 16th China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition will showcase active naval equipment from December 7 to 13, 2023, in Zhuhai. This marks the first inclusion of a maritime equipment display area at the event, highlighting China's naval capabilities. The exhibition will feature an extended duration and increased exhibition space, emphasizing a significant military presence.
Over 3,000 Exhibits at China Airshow, About 10% are "Debuts" and "First Showings"
The 16th China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition is being held in Beijing, showcasing over 3000 pieces of equipment, with approximately 10% being debut exhibits. The exhibition spans nearly 150,000 square meters indoors and 335,000 square meters outdoors, featuring participation from over 1100 companies across nearly 50 countries.
The Air Force’s Boeing F-47 Stealth Fighter Is Not Scheduled to Fly Until 2028. China Is Already Flying 2 Sixth-Generation Jets. The Air Force’s Answer Is to Run 2 Test Phases at the Same Time
The U.S. Air Force is advancing the development of the Boeing F-47 stealth fighter, with its first flight scheduled for 2028, while China is already operating its sixth-generation jets. The Air Force is employing a new testing strategy that combines developmental and operational testing to expedite the F-47's production. Preparations for full-rate production are currently underway at Edwards Air Force Base in California.
China’s New ‘Flying Wing’ Xi’an H-20 Stealth Bomber Is Now Frozen In a Development ‘Doom Loop’
China's H-20 stealth bomber program remains stagnant, with no confirmed test flights or operational deployments as of 2026. The People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) is attempting to leapfrog decades of U.S. experience in stealth technology, but the lack of combat experience since 1979 hampers its progress. The U.S. continues to lead in stealth capabilities with its B-2 Spirit and upcoming B-21 Raider.
North Korea Tests Tactical Ballistic Missile
North Korea conducted a test launch of a tactical ballistic missile on October 12, as reported by the Korean Central News Agency. The launch was executed by the North Korean Missile Bureau in Pyongyang.
Mojave STOL and Gray Eagle® 25M: Complementary capabilities for the modern battlefield
The U.S. Army introduced the Mojave STOL and Gray Eagle 25M aircraft, designed for modern battlefield operations. Mojave STOL enables operations from austere locations, while Gray Eagle 25M offers long-endurance capabilities in contested environments. Both aircraft support the Army's multi-domain operations and are built for adaptability to evolving threats. A demonstration of Mojave STOL occurred in South Korea on September 16, 2026.
Fatal tank blast could pause Japan’s Type 10 orders
A shell exploded inside a Type 10 main battle tank at the Hijudai Training Area in Japan on April 21, 2023, killing three soldiers and injuring one. The Japan Ground Self-Defense Force has suspended all training with the Type 10 tank pending an investigation into the incident. The Ministry of Defense is considering omitting the Type 10 from its fiscal 2027 budget request based on the investigation's findings.
Mine hunting goes remote as the Navy replaces minesweepers with robots
The U.S. Navy is transitioning to remote mine-hunting robots to enhance safety and efficiency in countering maritime mines in strategic areas like the Strait of Hormuz and the South China Sea. This shift aims to reduce risks to personnel and improve operational capabilities. The Navy's explosive ordnance disposal units are actively engaged in mine countermeasure operations, utilizing advanced technology to detect and neutralize threats.
The US Air Force Originally Planned 750 F-22 Raptors and Built 187 — Now It Plans 185 F-47s While China Has 6th-Generation Fighters Already in the Air
The US Air Force plans to replace its F-22 Raptors with 185 F-47s by the mid-2030s, following a significant reduction in F-22 production from an initial 750 to just 187 units. This shift comes as China has already deployed 6th-generation fighters, prompting the US to reassess its air superiority strategy. The F-22 production line was closed in 2012, and the focus has now shifted to the more versatile F-35.
South Korea tests drone wingman concept with FA-50 light fighter
Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) conducted a test flight of the FA-50 light combat aircraft in formation with the Adaptable Aerial Platform (AAP) drone on October 8, 2023, over the sea south of Goheung. This marks the first manned-unmanned formation flight in South Korea, lasting 20 minutes at an altitude of 2,100 meters and a speed of 360 km/h. KAI aims to develop drone capabilities for reconnaissance and strike missions, with future tests planned for controlling multiple drones simultaneously.
