Analysis & Reports

The People's Liberation Army (PLA) was established on August 1, 1927, during an armed uprising in Nanchang, marking its 99th anniversary. The report highlights the significance of the Communist Party's leadership in the military's evolution and reflects on the PLA's historical struggles and victories over the past 99 years. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining strong leadership to ensure the military's cohesion and effectiveness.

China and Russia conducted joint naval patrols in the East China Sea, during which Japan's Self-Defense Forces referred to themselves as 'Navy.' In response, China issued warnings to Japan to be cautious with their terminology. The events occurred recently near the Senkaku Islands.

The U.S. Defense Innovation Unit successfully completed an unmanned stores separation flight test with Hermeus' Quarterhorse in Atlanta. This test is part of the HyCAT program, which aims to accelerate hypersonic flight capabilities. The Quarterhorse reached a top speed of Mach 1.21, and a significant $159 million contract was awarded to Hermeus for ongoing testing and data sharing to inform future military aircraft development.

The Polish military tracked a Russian Kh-101 cruise missile for six minutes before it crashed in Tarnawa-Kolonia, Lublin Voivodeship, on July 30, 2026. Polish forces were prepared to intercept but did not fire, as the missile's trajectory posed no immediate threat to populated areas. The incident prompted a significant mobilization of Poland's air defense units, including F-16C and MiG-29 fighter jets, as well as NATO support.

On July 30, two F-2B aircraft from the Japan Air Self-Defense Force conducted tests at Gifu Base, carrying the new 25SSM air-launched missile. This missile, with a range of approximately 1000 kilometers, represents a significant enhancement in Japan's anti-ship capabilities. The Ministry of Defense plans to officially introduce this missile system by 2027, further integrating it into Japan's defense strategy.

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On July 30, the Southern Theater Command of the People's Liberation Army Navy conducted combat readiness patrols around Huangyan Island, showcasing the 054B frigate and CH-10 advanced trainer aircraft for the first time. UAV footage capturing Philippine aircraft was also released during this operation.

Ukraine attacked an Iranian merchant ship in the Caspian Sea, prompting concerns of potential Iranian missile strikes against Ukraine. The attack occurred before President Zelensky's visit to Washington, signaling Ukraine's alignment with U.S. military actions. Iranian officials warned that any attack on Iran would have severe consequences, indicating a possible escalation in the conflict.

The development of the KF-21 fighter jet was completed on July 29, 2023, with the first production aircraft set to be delivered to the Korean Air Force in September 2023. The project, which began in December 2015, aims to enhance South Korea's air combat capabilities by replacing older aircraft such as the F-4 and F-5. A total of 120 KF-21 jets are planned for delivery by 2032.

The fifth prototype of the J-36 fighter jet has reportedly emerged, indicating rapid iteration in the PLA's sixth-generation aircraft development. The design features a tailless delta configuration, aimed at enhancing stealth and operational range. This development is part of China's strategy to improve its air power capabilities, particularly in the context of operations beyond the first island chain.

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The China Coast Guard conducted routine law enforcement patrols east of Taiwan on July 31, aimed at maintaining navigation order and protecting the rights of Chinese citizens, including those in Taiwan. The patrols are part of ongoing efforts to assert control in the region and ensure maritime security.

Party members of the People's Liberation Army swore allegiance to the party flag during military training in Yuexi, China, in Summer 2023. The 75220 Unit engaged in armed assault training, while the 95662 Unit was recognized for its military readiness. The report underscores the significance of party loyalty in enhancing combat readiness and operational effectiveness.

The Air Assault Brigade conducted a joint combat training exercise in China, featuring the Z-20T helicopter in its first practical application. Multiple helicopter types, including Z-10, Z-8, and Z-20, participated, focusing on vertical strikes and operational coordination in complex terrains. The exercise aimed to expand combat radius and improve efficiency.

The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force launched a Tomahawk cruise missile from the Aegis destroyer Chokai in the Pacific Ocean on July 29, 2026. This marks Japan's first operational use of Tomahawk missiles from surface ships, indicating a significant enhancement of its military capabilities. Japan plans to equip five Aegis destroyers with Tomahawk capabilities by 2026 and acquire up to 400 missiles through U.S. Foreign Military Sales.

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The People's Liberation Army (PLA) showcased new long-range artillery capabilities in a recent public demonstration in China, featuring larger caliber rocket launches. This event marks a significant step in the PLA's transformation towards modern warfare, emphasizing the development of independent task modules and readiness for future battlefields. The evolution of military equipment was highlighted by a veteran soldier, reflecting on 33 years of service and multiple generations of equipment upgrades.

Amphibious Forces are currently integrating various military roles and advanced equipment into their operations, focusing on sea and shore exercises. Soldiers are now trained to operate alongside unmanned aerial vehicles and boats, enhancing their capabilities. This shift marks a departure from traditional roles, emphasizing a more versatile approach to modern warfare.

On July 30, the People's Liberation Army Southern Theater Command organized combat readiness patrols around Huangyan Island, while the China Coast Guard conducted law enforcement inspections in the same area. Communications between the Air Force and Coast Guard highlighted their joint efforts to safeguard Huangyan Island.

The Iranian military conducted drone strikes against U.S. forces at Sheikh Isa Air Base in Bahrain on July 30, targeting generators, navigation systems, and logistical buildings. The strikes reportedly caused significant damage to U.S. military assets, despite the presence of numerous defense systems.

Russian forces conducted large-scale strikes against Ukrainian military airports and industrial sites using precision weapons and drones from the evening of the 29th to the early morning of the 30th. Ukrainian forces reported 238 combat incidents and successfully repelled multiple Russian attacks in the directions of Sloviansk, Kupiansk, and Pokrovsk. Additionally, Russian forces gained control of four settlements in the Kharkiv, Sumy, and Donetsk regions.

Approximately 120 soldiers from the Israel Defense Forces refused orders and left their military base in Jerusalem on July 30. The incident arose from a conflict with a commander regarding the removal of slogans and signs, which soldiers protested against. Most of the soldiers returned to their posts, and the military has stated it will investigate the actions of the leading soldiers involved.

Ukraine claimed to have sunk a Russian Kilo-class submarine in Sevastopol on August 2, 2024, during a missile strike. The Kilo-class submarines, used by various navies including Russia, China, and Vietnam, are known for their stealth capabilities and are armed with Kalibr cruise missiles. The report highlights the ongoing relevance of these submarines in modern naval operations.