Analysis & Reports

U.S. Southern Command announced the establishment of a new Autonomous Warfare Command aimed at integrating unmanned systems into tactical missions. This command will operate within the Caribbean, South America, and Central America, focusing on countering threats and collaborating with regional partners. The initiative supports national security objectives and enhances operational capabilities in diverse environments.

The USS Wasp (CV-7) was torpedoed by the Japanese submarine I-19 on 15 September 1942 during the Battle of Guadalcanal, leading to catastrophic fires that destroyed the ship. Poor design choices resulted in inadequate damage control and firefighting systems, contributing to the loss of 193 crew members and hundreds of injuries. The incident highlighted the failures of the U.S. Navy's adherence to the Washington Naval Treaty over effective wartime design.

An explosion during live-fire training at the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force's training ground in Oita Prefecture on October 21, 2023, resulted in three fatalities and one serious injury. The incident occurred around 8:40 AM when a shell detonated prematurely inside a Type 10 main battle tank. The JGSDF has suspended training with this tank model and initiated an investigation into the accident.

The U.S. military is considering preventive strikes against Iran to prevent its nuclearization, a strategy supported by regional allies. In contrast, the potential for a similar action against North Korea has been hindered by South Korean concerns and the need for their consent. Historical attempts to strike North Korea were complicated by regional dynamics and the presence of nuclear weapons.

On November 2, 1985, the USS Enterprise (CVN-65) struck Bishop Rock at Cortes Bank, California, during an operational readiness exercise, resulting in significant hull damage. The crew executed damage control measures and decided to continue the mission despite the risks. The incident highlighted potential weaknesses in navigation and situational awareness, leading to the captain's relief and an estimated $17 million in repair costs.

The Sichuan Ship, China's first 076 amphibious assault ship, recently departed from Shanghai to conduct scientific research and training tasks in the South China Sea, testing multiple system platforms. This mission is part of a normal cross-regional training exercise and is not aimed at any specific target.

Three members of Japan's Ground Self-Defense Force were killed when a shell detonated inside a Type 10 tank during a live-fire exercise at the Hijudai training area in Oita Prefecture on Tuesday morning. A fourth soldier was seriously wounded. The incident, one of the most serious training accidents for the GSDF, is under investigation to determine the cause of the premature detonation.

The 74th Group Army conducted live-fire exercises in China to enhance precision strike capabilities. The evaluation team set multiple targets, requiring crew members to quickly identify and engage them. The exercises included operations during nighttime conditions, simulating real combat scenarios over several days.

The People's Liberation Army Navy conducted a naval exercise featuring artillery firing in China, celebrating the 77th anniversary of the People's Navy. The event showcased naval vessels and demonstrated their capabilities in a live-fire exercise.

The People's Liberation Army Navy is hosting a naval open day event in Shanghai from April 23 to 25, 2023, featuring over 40 active vessels available for public viewing for the first time. This event marks the 77th anniversary of the People's Navy and will take place at the Shanghai International Passenger Terminal and Wusongkou International Cruise Terminal.

On April 20, 2023, the Chinese Air Force deployed Y-20B aircraft to South Korea to repatriate the remains of fallen soldiers from the Korean War. Four J-20 aircraft will escort the Y-20B during this mission, which honors the 90th anniversary of the Long March and the 80th anniversary of the Northeast Old Aviation School. The Y-20B is designated 'Honor Return 50' and the J-20 is named 'Red Eagle'.

An ammunition explosion occurred at a Japan Ground Self-Defense Force training facility in Oita Prefecture on the morning of the 21st, resulting in the deaths of 3 personnel. The explosion was attributed to an abnormal detonation of a shell during tank firing exercises.

Southern Theater Command Navy conducted comprehensive training exercises in the South China Sea, involving multiple naval vessels. The fleet responded to simulated enemy threats, with radar systems detecting fast-moving targets. Main guns were used to successfully destroy surface targets, enhancing the combat capabilities and coordination of the participating vessels.

In April 2026, the People's Liberation Army underwent significant purges, impacting military command structures. Concurrently, the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force transited the Taiwan Strait, prompting a strong response from China, which released footage and issued warnings against external interference. Additionally, Chinese maritime survey activities were confirmed in Japan's exclusive economic zone, indicating ongoing military intentions in the region. Japan faces dual challenges from the energy crisis in the Holmuz Strait and rising military tensions in East Asia.

Tanaka TakashiTue Apr 21 2026Loading...

Japan Self-Defense Forces participated in joint military exercises with the U.S. and Philippines in Manila on April 20, 2023, deploying 1400 personnel and various military equipment, including the destroyer "Ray" and Type 88 anti-ship missiles. This marks Japan's first deployment of combat forces to the Philippines since World War II, raising concerns from China regarding Japan's military history and regional stability.

The U.S. Air Force is upgrading the B-52H Stratofortress to the B-52J to modernize its fleet and ensure viability until the 2050s. Key upgrades include new engines and enhanced weapons capacity for advanced missiles. The B-52J will support ongoing military operations while maintaining the bomber's role in the nuclear triad. The aircraft's operational challenges and unique flying characteristics are highlighted by pilots' experiences.

The Naval Aviation Force of the Southern and Eastern Theater Commands conducted extensive day and night flight training exercises, including platform takeoffs, landings, and maritime search and rescue operations. Young pilots demonstrated their skills under challenging weather conditions, successfully completing complex maneuvers. Logistical support was prioritized to ensure the safety and efficiency of the operations, which involved multiple aircraft across different regions.

A naval landing ship formation conducted live-fire training exercises in the South China Sea, successfully completing artillery fire against sea targets and docking maneuvers. The ships responded to simulated enemy threats by forming combat formations and executing coordinated actions. Training scenarios included emergency situations, enhancing the crew's operational capabilities.

The 133 ship formation of the Eastern Theater Command conducted training exercises in the western Pacific, passing through Henggang Waterway on April 19. This exercise aims to enhance the operational capabilities of the Chinese military and is part of a routine training plan. The 052DL-class destroyer, a key asset in the formation, is equipped for various combat roles, including air defense and anti-submarine warfare.

The 77th Group Army conducted unmanned transport exercises in China, successfully navigating complex terrain while under fire. The unit transported supplies and evacuated casualties, demonstrating enhanced logistical capabilities in challenging environments. The operation utilized unmanned transport vehicles to adapt to threats and complete the mission effectively.