Analysis & Reports

The Japan Ground Self-Defense Force deployed Type 25 anti-ship guided missiles and HVGPs at Kengun and Fuji bases on March 31. This deployment enhances Japan's military capabilities with a missile range extended to approximately 1000 kilometers, reflecting a shift in defense strategy. The Type 25 system is designed for modern naval warfare, indicating a significant evolution in Japan's deterrence posture.

Tanaka TakashiTue Jul 07 2026Loading...

Canada selected TKMS to build 12 new submarines, with the announcement made by Prime Minister Mark Carney on July 6, 2023, in Victoria, British Columbia. The project, estimated to cost up to $70 billion, aims to replace the aging Victoria-class submarines of the Royal Canadian Navy, with the first delivery expected in 2033. Negotiations with TKMS will commence soon, and a contract is anticipated by the end of the year.

Ten Chinese Navy vessels, including Type 055 destroyers, passed through the Miyako Strait, Osumi Strait, and between Amami Oshima and Yokoto Island from June 26 to July 1, 2023. This movement increased surveillance pressure on Japan's first island chain. The vessels included various classes, indicating a coordinated naval operation. Chinese experts described the passage as a routine training exercise.

Tanaka TakashiTue Jul 07 2026Loading...

China is developing the H-20 stealth bomber, which has faced delays since its announcement in 2016, with production timelines pushed to the 2030s. The Chinese military relies on land-based missiles for its strategic needs, making the urgency for the H-20 less critical. The bomber could enhance China's nuclear capabilities and provide flexibility in military operations, but its development is not prioritized over existing missile systems.

China is expanding its navy and aims to have nine aircraft carriers by the mid-2030s. The People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) faces challenges in developing operational capacity, including training pilots and establishing logistics. While China has significant shipbuilding capabilities, achieving effective carrier operations comparable to the U.S. Navy will require extensive institutional knowledge and experience.

The Chinese and Russian navies commenced the 'Maritime Cooperation-2026' joint exercise on October 6, 2026, in Qingdao, Shandong. This exercise features numerous naval vessels, including the Varyag missile cruiser and Ufa submarine, focusing on tactical coordination and joint operational capabilities. The event underscores the strategic trust and military cooperation between China and Russia, with activities including joint reconnaissance and air defense drills.

The Chinese Navy's 83rd fleet arrived in Ho Chi Minh City on May 5, 2023, for a four-day friendly visit, marking the first visit in nine years. The fleet includes the training ship Qi Jiguang and the dock landing ship Kunlunshan, and activities include ship tours and cultural exchanges with the Vietnamese Navy. This visit aims to strengthen ties and promote understanding between the two nations' navies.

On July 6, 2026, the People's Liberation Army Navy launched a submarine-launched ballistic missile from a Type 094 Jin-class submarine into the Pacific Ocean during routine training. The missile, which carried a simulated warhead, landed in a designated impact area. This test has raised concerns among Australia, Japan, and New Zealand regarding regional stability and China's expanding nuclear capabilities.

Marcus ChenMon Jul 06 2026Loading...

U.S. personnel have been observed regularly at Wuhan Camp in Longtan, Taoyuan, integrating into Taiwanese military life and conducting training activities. Approximately 500 U.S. Army Special Forces are reportedly involved, with activities resembling U.S. Army routines. This ongoing presence has been noted since at least 2023, reflecting a growing military relationship between the U.S. and Taiwan.

A Chinese Navy submarine launched a nuclear-capable ballistic missile into the Pacific Ocean on July 6, 2024, as part of a routine military training exercise. The missile, identified as either a JL-2 or JL-3, was fired from the Bohai Sea and impacted near the Solomon Islands. Japan received limited warning before the launch and expressed concerns, but no evidence indicated the missile crossed into its airspace.

China has surpassed the U.S. in fifth-generation stealth fighter numbers, with over 500 J-20 fighters now operational. The F-22 Raptor is no longer in production, limiting U.S. air combat capabilities. The J-20's advancements, including upgraded radars and missiles, enhance its role in China's integrated combat network, posing a significant strategic challenge to U.S. forces.

North Korea is enhancing its military capabilities, maintaining 1.2 to 1.3 million active-duty personnel and deploying artillery and missile systems near the Demilitarized Zone. The country aims to inflict maximum casualties on US forces quickly and is integrating tactical nuclear weapons into its strategy. The Korean Peninsula is a critical area for US military strategy, potentially becoming a decisive theater in a multi-theater conflict involving simultaneous crises.

The U.S. Navy maintains 292 battle force ships, with only 80 currently underway and 101 deployed. Federal law mandates 11 operational aircraft carriers, leading to the extension of USS Nimitz's service until March 2027, despite its potential inability to deploy again. The Navy faces significant challenges in maintaining readiness, with 75% of maintenance periods finishing late, impacting operational capacity.

China conducted a submarine-launched strategic missile test on July 6, 2026, demonstrating its capabilities in sea-based nuclear deterrence. The missile reportedly has intercontinental range, marking an upgrade to China's nuclear triad. However, the effectiveness of the People's Liberation Army Navy's ballistic-missile submarines in maintaining stealth during patrols remains uncertain. The test has implications for regional security, particularly concerning U.S. and allied monitoring efforts in the South China Sea and surrounding areas.

Marcus ChenMon Jul 06 2026Loading...

The Chinese Navy successfully launched a submarine-launched strategic missile on July 6 at 12:01. The missile, carrying a training simulation warhead, accurately landed in a predetermined sea area. Images of the missile launch were also released.

The Republic of Korea Marine Corps conducted a live combat exercise last week, testing integrated manned and unmanned systems, including K808 armored personnel carriers and quadruped robots, in South Korea. The exercise aimed to evaluate combat performance between traditional infantry formations and smaller units equipped with advanced technology. This initiative addresses the challenges posed by South Korea's declining birth rate and aims to maintain military effectiveness with fewer personnel.

Four Russian ships participated in joint naval exercises with the Chinese Navy in Qingdao on July 5-6, 2023. The exercise, named 'Maritime Interaction-2026', involved a variety of naval operations, including reconnaissance and air defense. This collaboration aims to strengthen political ties and operational capabilities in the Pacific region, showcasing both nations' naval presence.

Dmitri VolkovMon Jul 06 2026Loading...

The Nanning and Hengyang ships of the People's Liberation Army Navy completed a 5-day visit to Hong Kong on July 6, coinciding with the 29th anniversary of Hong Kong's return. The visit featured a 052D destroyer and a 054A frigate, showcasing China's naval capabilities while serving as a public relations event. This activity reflects the ongoing modernization and operational readiness of the Chinese navy.

Li MinghuiMon Jul 06 2026Loading...

Rohde & Schwarz Australia completed the Preliminary Design Review for the Integrated Communication System for the Hunter Class Frigate Program in Sydney on July 6, 2026. This milestone indicates the system's maturity and readiness for the next phase, the Critical Design Review, scheduled for later in 2026. The NAVICS system will provide integrated communications for the Royal Australian Navy's frigates, enhancing operational capabilities.

DroneShield announced the release of its Q3 2026 software on July 6, 2026, enhancing the performance of its counter-drone systems. The update improves RF detection, tracking responsiveness, and operational capabilities, addressing evolving drone threats. New features include air-gapped updates and expanded interoperability with various sensors.