Analysis & Reports

Russia urged Japan to withdraw the U.S. Tienfeng missile system following the conclusion of the 'Orient Shield 26' joint military exercise on September 24, 2023. Japan confirmed that the Tienfeng system will remain in the country, raising concerns about regional security and a potential arms race in Northeast Asia. The Tienfeng system, capable of launching Tomahawk cruise missiles, has been a point of contention between Russia and Japan.

Japan is planning to construct 130 new ammunition depots between 2027 and 2032, primarily in Hokkaido, Kyoto, Miyazaki, Kagoshima, and Okinawa. These depots will store new missile systems, including the Type 25 glide missile and Tomahawk cruise missiles, indicating a significant shift in Japan's military posture. This expansion is viewed as a response to regional tensions and reflects Japan's growing military ambitions.

The U.S., Japan, and South Korea conducted joint military training named Freedom Edge 26 from September 11 to 22, 2026, focusing on naval operations, missile defense, and information sharing. The training aimed to enhance cooperation in response to security challenges, including North Korea's actions and maritime law enforcement. A joint statement emphasized the importance of maintaining peace in the Taiwan Strait and protecting legitimate shipping activities.

Tanaka TakashiWed Sep 23 2026Loading...

President Trump announced a rebranding of 'artificial intelligence' to 'super intelligence' during the United Nations General Assembly. This change aims to better reflect the advanced capabilities of AI and its implications for national security. The term 'superintelligence' is recognized in AI literature, and the U.S. is focused on maintaining its lead over China in this critical sector.

Australia is investing hundreds of billions of AUD to develop nuclear-powered submarines but faces potential production delays. The Royal Australian Navy is exploring alternatives, including the B-21 Raider, to mitigate risks to its long-range strike capabilities. However, there is no official Plan B for submarines, and the F-47 NGAD is unlikely to be a viable substitute due to export restrictions.

South Korea faces military capacity dilemmas as it considers U.S. requests for support in the Strait of Hormuz while managing escalating threats from North Korea. The South Korean Army reported recent missile launches by North Korea, prompting concerns over troop deployment. President Lee Jae Myeong has ruled out war deployment, suggesting instead the extension of the Cheonghae Unit's operations for limited maritime security and humanitarian assistance.

Boeing Defence Australia selected Lite Coms to provide Beyond Line-Of-Sight Satellite Communications terminals for the Australian Defence Force's LAND 4140 program. The LITE SAT 1.3A terminals are designed for military operations, offering secure and resilient connectivity. This initiative aims to modernize Land Command, Control, Communications, and Computers systems to improve operational effectiveness.

The U.S. Navy is evaluating a strategy to target China's aircraft carriers, including Liaoning, Shandong, and Fujian, as part of a broader military campaign. This strategy aims to complicate Chinese operations in the Philippine Sea and surrounding areas. The Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) highlights the need for a persistent sea-denial campaign, but notes that the U.S. currently lacks the necessary resources to implement this effectively.

Marcus ChenTue Sep 22 2026Loading...

The North Sea Fleet of the People's Liberation Army Navy conducted a public open day for its naval vessels, the 052D destroyer Kaifeng and the 054A frigate Linyi, in Qingdao on October 22. This event allowed visitors to tour the ships and engage with naval personnel, promoting national defense education and military awareness.

Terma signed a contract with Cornes Technologies in Japan to promote and supply the C-Guard MK II Decoy Launching System for new naval vessels. This system offers flexible soft-kill capabilities against missile and torpedo threats and can operate independently or within a vessel’s combat management system. The collaboration aims to enhance naval self-protection in the Asia Pacific region.

New Zealand's two naval ships, HMNZS Te Mana and HMNZS Te Kaha, transited the Taiwan Strait late last week, marking a significant political gesture in the Indo-Pacific region. This operation demonstrates New Zealand's intent to maintain a presence in sensitive maritime areas despite its limited naval capabilities. The transit underscores New Zealand's commitment to freedom of navigation and its role as a security stakeholder in the Pacific.

Marcus ChenMon Sep 21 2026Loading...

Japan's Ministry of Defense submitted a budget request for the 2027 fiscal year, proposing approximately 8.9 trillion yen, which may exceed 10 trillion yen. This marks a significant increase in defense spending, reflecting a shift towards offensive military capabilities, including long-range missiles and drones. The government aims to integrate advanced technologies into military operations, indicating a broader strategy of military expansion and modernization.

China is enhancing its strategic presence in the Pacific Islands, focusing on Palau, the Marshall Islands, and Tuvalu to support its objectives regarding Taiwan. The People's Liberation Army is engaging in activities such as coast guard visits and intelligence operations to reduce Taiwan's diplomatic partners and complicate U.S. military logistics. This approach emphasizes dual-use access rather than establishing permanent military bases.

Marcus ChenSun Sep 20 2026Loading...

China is showcasing various prototypes of the J-36 sixth-generation stealth fighter in Chengdu, with significant design revisions noted since December 2024. The Chengdu Aircraft Corporation is rapidly advancing its capabilities, potentially outpacing American developments in sixth-generation warplanes. Recent imagery indicates that the J-36 is optimized for low observability and may serve as a long-range fighter-bomber.

On September 19, 2026, U.S. officials publicly acknowledged the deployment of space control weapons, marking a shift in military strategy. The People's Liberation Army (PLA) is adapting its operations to rely more on space-based systems for reconnaissance and navigation. Experts warn that this could trigger a new arms race in space, as both the U.S. and China recognize the need for crisis management mechanisms in this domain.

Li MinghuiSun Sep 20 2026Loading...

Japan and the United States are enhancing security cooperation through their 8th defense ministerial meeting on September 19, 2026, focusing on operational integration by 2026. The discussions highlight the need for improved coordination in response to North Korean missile activities and emphasize Japan's role in regional security beyond mere base support. The report indicates ongoing efforts to strengthen military ties amid evolving security challenges in the region.

Tanaka TakashiSun Sep 20 2026Loading...

Russia demands Japan withdraw the U.S. 'Tomahawk' missile system deployed in Japan, citing threats to national security. Despite multiple protests from Russia, Japan continues to maintain the deployment. Russian officials emphasize that any deployment of such weapons is unacceptable and poses a direct threat to Russia's security interests.

Anduril Industries reported that delays in U.S. arms sales to Taiwan are impacting its operations and the overall deterrence strategy against China. The company highlighted that political approval delays hinder the timely delivery of critical military equipment, such as the Altius-600M loitering munition. This situation raises concerns about Taiwan's defense capabilities in the face of increasing pressure from the People's Liberation Army.

Marcus ChenSat Sep 19 2026Loading...

On September 18, 2026, a collision occurred between Philippine vessel 3015 and a Chinese coast guard vessel near Sabina Shoal in the Spratly Islands. Both nations accused each other of causing the incident, which underscores the ongoing maritime tensions in the South China Sea. The incident reflects the strategic importance of the area and the potential for further escalation between the two nations.

Marcus ChenSat Sep 19 2026Loading...

China's revised National Defense Mobilization Law will take effect on October 1, 2026, enabling the mobilization of civilian resources for military use. This includes civilian ships and drones, which will be integrated into the People's Liberation Army's operational framework. The law aims to enhance military readiness and resource allocation in response to threats, particularly concerning Taiwan.

Li MinghuiSat Sep 19 2026Loading...