Analysis & Reports

Chinese naval vessels Qi Jiguang and Kunlunshan are set to visit Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, in early July at the invitation of the Vietnamese Navy. This visit reflects the deepening cooperation between the Chinese and Vietnamese navies in areas such as vessel exchanges and joint patrols, aimed at enhancing mutual trust and maintaining regional stability.

On July 3, 2026, the UK, Italy, and Japan awarded a $6.1 billion contract to Edgewing for the development of a next-generation stealth fighter jet under the Global Combat Air Programme. This initiative aims to replace existing aircraft and enhance military capabilities, with a demonstrator aircraft expected to fly by the end of 2027. The program represents a significant collaboration among the three nations, focusing on advanced technology and global security.

The PLA demonstrated a modular electromagnetic catapult system for launching drones using three connected 8-wheeled vehicles in Beijing on July 3. This system allows for transportable and camouflaged drone launch facilities, aiming to produce 2000 units annually. It enhances the operational capabilities of fixed-wing drones, reducing reliance on traditional runways, though challenges in power supply and maintenance remain.

Li MinghuiSat Jul 04 2026Loading...

On June 27, the Chinese and Russian air forces conducted a joint aerial strategic cruise in the Sea of Japan, East China Sea, and Western Pacific. The operation featured H-6K bombers, advanced fighter jets, and electronic warfare support, demonstrating their commitment to regional stability and military cooperation. This exercise highlighted the capabilities of both air forces in a potential future conflict scenario.

The Chinese Coast Guard has commenced patrols in the eastern waters of Taiwan as of July 2026, exerting new pressure on Japan and the Philippines. This activity is viewed as an attempt to assert control over maritime routes and is not limited to law enforcement, indicating a shift in regional maritime dynamics. The situation complicates security for both Japan and the Philippines, as they must navigate the implications of these patrols on their own maritime operations.

Tanaka TakashiSat Jul 04 2026Loading...

The U.S. Air Force showcased the F-15EX and MQ-28 during Valiant Shield 2026 at Kadena Air Base, Okinawa, on July 1, 2026. This event highlighted the future of human-machine teaming in military operations. The procurement of F-15EX aircraft has been increased significantly, indicating a strategic shift in air defense capabilities. The MQ-28's involvement in joint operations demonstrates its potential role in enhancing combat effectiveness alongside traditional manned aircraft.

Tanaka TakashiSat Jul 04 2026Loading...

The People's Armed Police Force conducted live-fire training exercises in Qinghai, focusing on shooting and grenade throwing. Troops utilized various weapons, including automatic rifles and flamethrowers, to enhance their combat skills. The training aimed to improve the psychological resilience and tactical proficiency of the personnel in a high-altitude environment.

The Chinese Coast Guard conducted law enforcement patrols in the waters east of Taiwan on July 4, replacing the Daishan ship with the Xiushan ship. These patrols aim to ensure normal navigation and protect the rights of Chinese fishermen, including those from Taiwan. The operations are part of ongoing efforts to strengthen law enforcement in Chinese jurisdictional waters.

The Chinese Strategic Missile Forces maintain a state of readiness for combat, having evolved over 60 years to include both nuclear and conventional capabilities. They emphasize training tailored to future battlefield needs, reflecting a strong confidence in their operational capabilities.

The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force is set to conduct joint mine warfare training with the U.S. Navy and Indian Navy in Mutsu Bay from July 11 to July 23, 2026. This exercise will involve ten ships and eight aircraft, focusing on mine laying, sweeping, and underwater disposal operations. The inclusion of the Indian Navy highlights a collaborative effort to enhance regional security capabilities among allied forces.

Tanaka TakashiSat Jul 04 2026Loading...

China showcased its new Type 100 tank during a parade in Beijing on September 3, 2025, marking a significant evolution in its armored capabilities. The Type 100 features an unmanned turret and a smaller 105mm gun, reflecting a shift in military strategy. The tank has entered active service as of May 4, 2026, following extensive development at the Baotou factory, which has produced every generation of Chinese tanks since 1959.

China's aerospace industry is producing hundreds of J-20 stealth fighters, enhancing its military capabilities. However, the People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) faces significant challenges in training elite pilots, as they lack combat experience and institutional knowledge. To mitigate this, China is actively recruiting experienced Western military pilots to improve its pilot training programs.

China's Fujian aircraft carrier, set for 2026, is equipped with a six-tube lightweight torpedo launcher to counter submarine threats, particularly from U.S. forces. This marks a significant upgrade from previous systems and reflects the People's Liberation Army Navy's concerns about carrier survivability. However, the effectiveness of this system in real combat scenarios remains uncertain due to the challenges of underwater warfare.

Marcus ChenFri Jul 03 2026Loading...

Japan, Italy, and the U.K. signed a £4.6 billion contract for the development of the GCAP fighter jet in Rome. This contract, awarded to the Edgewing consortium, follows a commitment of £8.6 billion over four years from the U.K. to support the program. Japan emphasized the need for the jet to be operational by 2035, reflecting the urgency of the project ahead of the Farnborough airshow.

China is building J-20A stealth fighters equipped with the WS-15 engine, marking a significant advancement in its military capabilities. The Chengdu Aircraft Corporation has released images of the aircraft in flight, and production is set to ramp up, with estimates of around 1,000 J-20s by 2030. The new engine enhances the fighter's performance, enabling supercruise capabilities and improving its operational reach.

Taiwan is enhancing its defense capabilities by prioritizing drone technology to deter conflict with China. U.S. diplomat Raymond Greene emphasized the importance of drones at a forum in Taichung, stating they could significantly boost Taiwan's security. The Taiwanese government has proposed a substantial budget for drone development, while the opposition party has also introduced its own drone legislation. Greene highlighted the effectiveness of drones in modern warfare, referencing their impact in Ukraine.

An American pilot was killed by local armed militants in Yahukimo, Papua, on July 2. The pilot's small aircraft, which was carrying seven passengers, was attacked and subsequently set on fire. The Indonesian military confirmed the incident and is actively pursuing the attackers, who have claimed responsibility for the assault, citing the aircraft's role in transporting military personnel.

The U.S. Marine Corps deployed the Medium-Range Intercept Capability (MRIC) in Japan as part of the III Marine Expeditionary Force during the Valiant Shield 2026 exercise. Each trailer carries 20 interceptors with a range of 2 to 43 miles, with plans for three batteries to be operational by 2028. This deployment aims to enhance air defense capabilities in the Western Pacific amid increasing threats from China.

Marcus ChenFri Jul 03 2026Loading...

China fields approximately 4,700 active main battle tanks, making it the largest tank army globally. India follows with a fleet ranging from 3,700 to 4,614 tanks, while Russia has about 3,460 active tanks, significantly reduced due to losses in Ukraine. North Korea's active tank count is estimated between 3,500 and 4,300, and the United States has around 2,640 active Abrams tanks. The report highlights discrepancies between reported and operational tank numbers across these nations.

Between April 25 and June 9, 2026, 73 civilians were killed in Mali due to conflicts involving JNIM, FLA, and Africa Corps. Notable incidents occurred in Zambougou, Gao, and Kidal, where military operations targeted civilian populations. The JNIM has intensified attacks on supply routes, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis and threatening the stability of Bamako and surrounding areas.

Marie DuboisFri Jul 03 2026Loading...