Analysis & Reports

China is enhancing its military capabilities, focusing on advanced anti-ship missiles and expanding its submarine fleet to counter U.S. aircraft carriers in the Pacific. The People’s Liberation Army Navy is developing systems like the DF-21D and DF-26B missiles, which pose a significant threat to U.S. naval forces. As of November 28, 2023, China operates approximately 50 submarines, with plans to increase this number to 65 by 2030.

The China Coast Guard deployed over 300 law enforcement vessels in the South China Sea during the Spring Festival to conduct patrols and law enforcement exercises. Personnel engaged in operations to maintain sovereignty and protect national maritime rights, utilizing drones for evidence collection. Despite being away from home, the Coast Guard members expressed their dedication to their mission and the importance of their role during the holiday season.

The Eastern Theater Air Force is conducting realistic combat training exercises under complex weather conditions to enhance pilot combat skills, occurring near the Spring Festival.

The Dalian Maritime Safety Administration issued a navigation warning regarding military operations in the Bohai Strait and northern Yellow Sea from February 15 at 16:00 to March 1 at 16:00. Entry into the specified maritime areas is prohibited during this period.

Chinese Coast Guard vessels are conducting patrols and celebrating the Spring Festival around Diaoyu Island, Huangyan Island, and other reefs. The vessels are decorated and personnel are sending New Year greetings, demonstrating China's maritime presence in these contested areas. Despite rough sea conditions, the Coast Guard maintains its patrols to assert sovereignty during this festive period.

The U.S. Air Force deployed 48 F-35A Lightning IIs to Misawa Air Base in Japan, raising concerns about their vulnerability to Chinese missile strikes. With a mission-capable rate of only 50-55%, operational availability is limited to 24-26 aircraft. The concentration of these high-value assets within range of Chinese ballistic missiles presents significant operational risks, especially given the slow production rate of replacement aircraft. This deployment signals U.S. commitment to the region but raises questions about the credibility of deterrence strategies.

Tanaka TakashiSat Feb 14 2026Loading...

Two J-16 fighter jets from the People's Liberation Army Air Force conducted air defense missions in the South China Sea during the Spring Festival holiday. Pilots were on high alert, ready to respond to unidentified aerial threats, demonstrating the operational readiness of the air force. The entire team and systems were prepared for rapid deployment and effective response.

A border defense company from the Shannan Military District conducted armed patrols in the treacherous mountainous region of Tibet before the Spring Festival of 2026. The patrol involved 14 soldiers, who face numerous dangers, including steep cliffs and landslides. The soldiers commemorate their fallen comrades along the patrol route, emphasizing the risks involved in their mission.

Carrier-based helicopter units conduct search and rescue operations for downed pilots on aircraft carriers, maintaining 24/7 readiness. These helicopters, such as the Z-9, are crucial for ensuring pilot safety, especially during nighttime missions. The operations are complex due to environmental conditions, requiring precise coordination to rescue pilots from cold waters.

The joint law enforcement operation concluded successfully on February 13, involving Chinese law enforcement units and counterparts from Laos, Myanmar, and Thailand. The operation lasted five days, covering over 700 kilometers, and included inspections of 50 vessels and 200 individuals in high-risk areas of the Mekong River. A meeting was also held to strengthen cooperation against crime in the region.

The Navy of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) conducted naval training exercises in the East China Sea, deploying multiple vessels, including the 075 amphibious assault ship Guangxi, before the Spring Festival in 2026. Personnel engaged in aircraft takeoff and landing training, emphasizing readiness for real combat scenarios. This operation reflects the PLA's commitment to maintaining operational capabilities during national holidays.

On February 13, the People's Liberation Army Air Force successfully locked onto a foreign stealth aircraft at a distance of 800 meters using a J-16 fighter jet. This operation highlights the effectiveness of China's multi-layered anti-stealth defense system, which integrates ground-based and airborne radar support. The incident raises questions about the challenges of detecting stealth aircraft at greater distances and the operational costs involved in such military engagements.

Li MinghuiSat Feb 14 2026Loading...

A group of young soldiers from the People's Liberation Army Navy is currently serving on the Hainan ship, demonstrating loyalty and bravery. They are characterized as passionate youth committed to their military duties, embodying the ship's motto of loyalty and fearlessness.

U.S. Coast Guard forces boarded and seized the oil tanker Skipper in international waters near Venezuela on December 10, detaining approximately 30 sailors. The operation was prompted by the vessel's misreporting of geolocation data and its status as a U.S.-sanctioned ship. China condemned the seizure as unlawful, claiming it violated international law.

In 2024, the Hainan Ship of the People's Liberation Army Navy conducted aircraft takeoff and landing training in the South China Sea. The ship, with a displacement of 40,000 tons, has rapidly developed combat capabilities since its commissioning in April 2021. The crew has implemented new operational procedures and logistics improvements to enhance amphibious assault capabilities.

The U.S. Air Force is deploying 48 F-35A Lightning II fighters to Misawa Air Base, Japan, in February 2026. This strategic move aims to enhance air power in the Pacific and counter China's military capabilities. The deployment supports Japan's growing fleet of mini-carriers and establishes a multinational air network to project power across the region.

On June 12, 1944, soldiers at Camp Forest in Tennessee exchanged letters with loved ones, providing emotional support during World War II. Joseph Brenner, part of the U.S. Army’s 740th Field Artillery Battery, received letters from his wife, Norma, which included a kiss mark. The Veterans History Project highlights the importance of these letters in maintaining morale among troops, with many soldiers, including Pfc. Sumner Grant and Ralph Samuel Jaffe, sharing their experiences through correspondence.

The U.S. Army established a rotational force of 50 soldiers in the Philippines in July 2025 to support missile defense operations. However, this number is insufficient to sustain the Typhon missile system under combat conditions, raising concerns about operational effectiveness. The deployment aims to enhance military partnerships while avoiding permanent bases, but logistical challenges and limited troop numbers may hinder defense capabilities in a crisis.

Marcus ChenFri Feb 13 2026Loading...

The Eastern Theater Command Air Force is conducting intensive combat readiness training at an airbase in China, involving multiple fighter jets. This training is part of preparations for the upcoming Spring Festival, with personnel engaged in both flying operations and equipment maintenance to ensure readiness. The atmosphere is described as increasingly serious as the holiday approaches.

Loudi Ship (176) and Ganzi Ship conducted naval exercises in the Yellow Sea in 2026, enhancing their combat capabilities. Loudi Ship completed multi-task offensive and defensive operations, while Ganzi Ship engaged in real combat training, responding to detected submarine activity. The exercises included various training scenarios to improve crew readiness and emergency response capabilities.