Analysis & Reports

JS Maya and JS Kirishima participated in the FST-J 26-71 joint missile defense training exercise with USS Shoup in March 2026. The exercise focused on command control and decision-making in response to missile threats, emphasizing the integration of capabilities between the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force and the U.S. Navy. It highlighted the need for rapid information sharing and effective decision-making in the context of evolving threats from North Korea and China.

Tanaka TakashiThu Jun 25 2026Loading...

The Northern Theater Command Navy conducted realistic combat training in a specific sea area, engaging in joint strike and anti-terrorism operations. Naval vessels fired main guns to destroy simulated enemy ships and utilized sonar to detect underwater threats. They successfully neutralized approaching unmanned aerial vehicles using electromagnetic interference devices.

Chinese naval vessels, including the aircraft carrier Liaoning, passed through the Miyako Strait on June 20, 2023, heading towards the East China Sea. This movement is part of ongoing naval operations and training exercises, with the Japanese Self-Defense Forces conducting monitoring activities. The event highlights the strategic military activities in the region, particularly in relation to Japan and the Philippines.

Tanaka TakashiWed Jun 24 2026Loading...

The U.S. Army deployed the Typhon system in Kagoshima for joint training exercises with Japan's Self-Defense Forces in June 2026. This deployment coincided with the start of the multinational exercise 'Variant Shield 2026' on June 23, which involved multiple locations including Hawaii. Japan is also advancing its missile capabilities, reflecting a shift in the operational dynamics of the U.S.-Japan alliance.

Tanaka TakashiWed Jun 24 2026Loading...

The People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) completed long-range combat training exercises in the West Pacific, returning to Qingdao on June 22, 2023. The exercises involved the Liaoning aircraft carrier and the 075 amphibious assault ship, focusing on joint operations and aerial refueling capabilities. This training was conducted amid provocations from Japanese forces, demonstrating China's enhanced military readiness and operational capabilities.

China's aircraft carriers, including Liaoning, Shandong, and the upcoming Fujian, are actively engaged in extensive training and operational exercises in the Western Pacific from 2023 to 2025. Shandong conducted significant drills in April and September 2023, while Fujian is set to enter service in November 2025, showcasing advanced capabilities with electromagnetic catapults. The dual-carrier exercises aim to improve the combat readiness of the People's Liberation Army Navy.

The Liaoning aircraft carrier group completed over 40 days of realistic combat training, returning safely to Qingdao on the 22nd. The training involved operations in the South China Sea and Western Pacific, enhancing the group's capabilities through joint exercises with amphibious assault ships. The use of the Yunyou-20 tanker significantly increased the operational range of the carrier-based J-15 fighter jets, while the group remained vigilant against provocations from Japanese naval forces.

Valiant Shield 26 commenced on June 22, 2026, involving the U.S. Army and Japan Self-Defense Forces in multi-domain interoperability training. The exercise, running until July 1, includes the deployment of Typhon missile systems and HIMARS at Kano Air Base for integrated anti-ship warfare. The focus is on maintaining operational readiness and deterrence in the Western Pacific, with training extending from Kagoshima to Hawaii and Guam.

Tanaka TakashiTue Jun 23 2026Loading...

The Liaoning aircraft carrier returned to Qingdao on June 22 after 40 days of training, marking the first public joint exercise with the Anhui amphibious assault ship. The training involved various tactical operations, including live-fire exercises, in the South China Sea and Western Pacific, while being monitored by Japanese naval forces. This exercise aimed to enhance coordination between different naval platforms and tested the PLA Navy's operational capabilities.

Li MinghuiTue Jun 23 2026Loading...

Philippine forces are verifying a 6x6 meter structure in Scarborough Shoal, which may signify a change in control dynamics in the area. China has maintained a continuous presence since 2012, with 26 Chinese vessels recently monitored in the West Philippine Sea. The U.S. and Philippine forces conducted joint maritime activities nearby, highlighting the ongoing strategic competition in the region.

Marcus ChenMon Jun 22 2026Loading...

The Liaoning aircraft carrier conducted extensive military training exercises in the South China Sea and Western Pacific over a period of 40 days. The exercises included air defense, maritime strikes, and comprehensive rescue operations, involving multiple naval vessels and aircraft. This training is aimed at enhancing the operational capabilities of the carrier.

The Liaoning aircraft carrier group and Anhui amphibious assault ship group conducted joint training exercises in the South China Sea. This mixed fleet aims to enhance their operational capabilities for various combat tasks, despite the complexities of coordination required. The exercises indicate a development in the navy's ability to control islands and land points in different maritime areas.

On June 22, the Liaoning aircraft carrier group successfully completed long-range combat training and returned to its home port in Qingdao. During the training, Japanese vessels and aircraft conducted multiple close-range surveillance and provocations, which the Liaoning group addressed with a high state of readiness and by launching carrier-based aircraft.

The Liaoning aircraft carrier group completed long-range combat training in the South China Sea and Western Pacific, returning safely to Qingdao on June 22 after over 40 days of exercises. The training involved joint operations with an amphibious assault ship group and focused on real combat scenarios to enhance operational readiness.

The Liaoning aircraft carrier group successfully completed over 40 days of long-range combat training and returned to Qingdao on June 22. During the training, the group maintained high readiness against provocations from Japanese vessels and aircraft, conducting combat flight operations and adapting formations as necessary.

PLA anti-tank missile units conducted a training exercise in the Gobi Desert in late June 2026, focusing on target acquisition and engagement under challenging conditions. The exercise emphasized the integration of drones and command vehicles for real-time updates, showcasing the unit's adaptation to modern warfare requirements. This training reflects the PLA's ongoing efforts to enhance operational capabilities in complex environments.

Li MinghuiMon Jun 22 2026Loading...

The Japan Self-Defense Forces will conduct a joint training exercise from June 29 to July 3, 2026, focusing on island and amphibious operations in Kagoshima Prefecture. This exercise involves multiple units and aims to enhance operational readiness in response to regional threats, particularly from Chinese maritime activities. Key components include logistics and command control, emphasizing the importance of rapid response capabilities.

Tanaka TakashiMon Jun 22 2026Loading...

The People's Liberation Army Navy is actively conducting naval operations and patrols in the South China Sea. Recent reports indicate the involvement of various naval vessels and patrol boats in these military activities. This reflects an ongoing commitment to securing maritime interests in the region.

Blue army units are currently conducting maneuvers in China to disrupt the operations of the Rocket Force of the People's Liberation Army. These exercises involve numerous vehicles, including electronic warfare and reconnaissance units, aimed at simulating realistic combat conditions. The Rocket Force emphasizes the importance of precise communication and mapping in missile operations.

The U.S. Air Force relocated three RQ-4 Global Hawk surveillance drones to Yokota Air Base in Japan, with the first arriving on May 27, 2023. Approximately 150 personnel from the 4th Reconnaissance Squadron also transferred to Japan. This move aims to enhance operational capabilities in the region, particularly during typhoon season, and supports ongoing intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions.