Analysis & Reports
AI-assisted analysis of military-related information from public sources
Chinese Coast Guard fleet patrols in our Diaoyu Island territorial waters on May 7.
On May 7, the China Coast Guard conducted a patrol in the territorial waters of Diaoyu Island. This operation is part of China's legal rights protection activities regarding the area.
Mali: The Coordinated FLA-JNIM Offensive of April 25, 2026 — The Biggest Security Crisis Since 2012 Shakes the Junta and the Alliance of Sahel States
On April 25, 2026, a coordinated offensive by the Front for the Liberation of Azawad (FLA) and Jama'at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM) targeted eight locations in Mali, resulting in significant casualties, including the death of Defense Minister Sadio Camara. The offensive led to the capture of Kidal and other strategic areas, while the Malian Armed Forces and Africa Corps faced heavy losses. In retaliation, the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) initiated airstrikes against jihadist positions.
Marie DuboisThu May 07 2026Loading...
U.S. Air Force deploys F-22 Raptors to Japan
U.S. Air Force deployed F-22 Raptors from Alaska and Virginia to Kadena Air Base in Japan. This deployment enhances air superiority capabilities in the Western Pacific and supports the U.S.-Japan security alliance amid rising Chinese military activity. The F-22s will operate alongside existing aircraft at Kadena, integrating with local operations to maintain readiness for contingencies.
Escalation of the South China Sea Game: Strategic Interpretation of the 2026 "Shoulder to Shoulder" Joint Military Exercises and PLA Countermeasures
The U.S. and allied forces conducted the Balikatan joint military exercises in the South China Sea from April 20 to May 8, 2026, involving over 17,000 troops. Japan actively participated with significant military assets, while China responded with law enforcement actions and military patrols to assert its sovereignty. The exercises highlighted the strategic military dynamics in the region, reflecting an escalation in U.S.-China military competition.
Li MinghuiThu May 07 2026Loading...
J-10CE Achieves Real Combat Results! Chief Designer: There is Still Much Room for Improvement
The J-10CE fighter jet achieved its first combat results in May 2025 in China. This domestically developed aircraft is designed for all-weather, multi-role operations and features fully indigenous components. The jet is expected to have significant potential for future development and customization based on client needs.
Two Years of Sea Trials for the Fujian Aircraft Carrier: Technological Leap of the Electromagnetic Catapult Carrier and Strategic Implications for Moving Towards the Deep Blue
The Fujian aircraft carrier completed its second anniversary of sea trials on May 1, 2026, showcasing significant advancements in China's naval technology. It features a world-first electromagnetic catapult system and has successfully conducted multiple trials, enhancing its operational capabilities. The carrier is part of China's broader military modernization efforts, supported by a substantial defense budget.
Li MinghuiThu May 07 2026Loading...Israeli Airstrikes in Multiple Areas of Gaza Result in 5 Deaths, Son of Hamas Official Seriously Injured
Israeli airstrikes on May 6, 2023, targeted civilian areas in Gaza, resulting in at least 5 deaths, including critical injuries to the son of a senior Hamas official. The strikes hit a bus station in Jabalia and a tent housing displaced persons in Gaza City. Hamas condemned the attacks, claiming they violate ceasefire agreements and international law.
Post-World War II Overseas First Launch of Offensive Missiles: Why Did Japan Choose the Antique Type 88?
Japan launched two Type 88 anti-ship missiles on May 6, 2023, during a military exercise with the U.S. and Philippines, marking its first overseas offensive missile launch since World War II. The launch took place on Luzon Island and involved the Japan Self-Defense Forces. The Type 88 missile, which has been in service since 1988, is considered outdated but was used to demonstrate Japan's evolving defense posture.
A field competition tests how Army chaplains face a modern battlefield
U.S. Army chaplains, including Capt. Alec Correa, participated in a training event at Camp Humphreys, South Korea, designed to prepare them for high-casualty battlefield scenarios. The training involved administering Last Rites, providing support to soldiers, and managing stress in chaotic environments. This initiative reflects a renewed focus on the chaplain corps' role in modern warfare, emphasizing their importance in supporting troops during crises.
A field competition for Army chaplains tests spiritual mettle
U.S. Army chaplains, including Capt. Alec Correa, participated in a training event at Camp Humphreys, South Korea, designed to prepare them for high-casualty combat scenarios. The training involved administering Last Rites, providing spiritual support, and managing stress in chaotic environments. This initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance the effectiveness of the chaplain corps in future conflicts.
Under the guise of so-called security cooperation, Japan's "new militarism" poses a threat with its first overseas launch of offensive missiles.
Japan launched an 88-type anti-ship missile during joint military exercises with the U.S. and the Philippines on June 6, marking its first overseas missile launch since World War II. This action reflects Japan's ongoing efforts to enhance its military capabilities and defense cooperation with allies, raising concerns about its militarization and regional stability.
Balikatan 2026: How the First-Ever Tomahawk Launch from Philippine Soil Is Reshaping Indo-Pacific Deterrence
On May 5, 2026, the U.S. Army launched a Tomahawk missile from Tacloban, Leyte, during the Balikatan 2026 exercise, involving over 17,000 troops from the U.S., Philippines, Japan, and other nations. This marked the first missile launch from the Philippines, enhancing regional deterrence capabilities. The exercise included live-fire drills and showcased advanced weapon systems, while China conducted patrols in response, highlighting rising tensions in the South China Sea.
Marcus ChenWed May 06 2026Loading...
Balikatan 2026 and the New Architecture of Indo-Pacific Deterrence
U.S. and allied forces conducted a live-fire coastal defense drill in Laoag, Philippines, from April 20 to May 8, 2026, as part of Exercise Balikatan 2026, involving 17,000 troops. The exercise showcased advanced military capabilities, including the deployment of HIMARS and F-22 fighters. In response, China conducted naval operations, highlighting the escalating military dynamics in the Indo-Pacific region.
Marcus ChenWed May 06 2026Loading...
Carrier-based fighter live-fire training, exciting!
Naval Aviation University conducted high-intensity live-fire training exercises in Bohai Bay, involving multiple aircraft and various munitions. Pilots practiced precision strikes and emergency response capabilities, successfully engaging ground targets with rockets and bombs. The training emphasized meticulous preparation and coordination among personnel to ensure operational readiness.
Pakistan’s first Chinese submarine set to boost naval capability
Pakistan commissioned its first Chinese submarine, Hangor, in Sanya, China, on April 30, 2023. This submarine is part of a larger deal for eight submarines aimed at enhancing Pakistan's naval capabilities. The commissioning ceremony was attended by Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari and navy chief Naveed Ashraf, highlighting the deepening defense cooperation between Pakistan and China.
Pakistan 2026 and the PLA's Multidimensional Countermeasures in the South China Sea: Bombers Carrying Supersonic Missiles Cruise Huangyan Island, 055 Destroyers Conduct Live Fire Exercises East of Luzon Island
The People's Liberation Army (PLA) conducted multi-dimensional countermeasures in the South China Sea from April to early May 2026, responding to the Balikatan 2026 exercises involving 17,000 personnel from the U.S. and allied nations. The PLA deployed H-6 bombers armed with YJ-12 missiles and conducted live-fire drills with naval forces, including the Liaoning aircraft carrier and 055 destroyer Zunyi, near Scarborough Shoal and east of Luzon Island.
Li MinghuiWed May 06 2026Loading...Pakistan 2026 and the PLA's Multidimensional Countermeasures in the South China Sea
The Balikatan 2026 joint military exercises commenced in late April 2026, involving 17,000 personnel from the U.S., Philippines, Japan, Australia, and Canada in the South China Sea. In response, the People's Liberation Army conducted multi-dimensional countermeasures, including air patrols and naval exercises near Scarborough Shoal. The PLA deployed advanced aircraft and naval vessels, showcasing its growing military capabilities.
Li MinghuiWed May 06 2026Loading...
Congratulations! 28 Officers and Soldiers Promoted!
A promotion ceremony for 28 personnel, including 21 officers and 7 senior non-commissioned officers, was held at a naval base under the Southern Theater Command. The event featured the national anthem and was marked by applause as the promoted personnel expressed their commitment to their military duties.
Falling from the Sky, Forging the "Vanguard" of Water Rescue!
The 82nd Group Army of the Central Theater Command conducted helicopter water rescue and hoisting training in China. The exercise focused on improving the crew's coordination, emergency response, and precise rescue capabilities. Following a distress report, helicopters swiftly deployed to locate and rescue individuals in water, successfully executing a series of high-intensity training missions over several days.
U.S. Media: Cargo Ship in Gulf Region Suspected of Missile Attack, Several Crew Members Injured
A cargo ship named CGM Saint Antonio was reportedly attacked by a ground-based cruise missile in the Gulf region on the night of May 5, injuring several Filipino crew members. The ship was previously located near Dubai earlier that day. The UK Maritime Trade Operations confirmed the incident, indicating it was struck by an unidentified projectile.
