Analysis & Reports

The Sichuan Ship recently conducted a live ammunition launch and showcased footage of its electromagnetic catapult test. This marks the first public demonstration of these capabilities, highlighting advancements in naval technology.

On July 30, the Japan Air Self-Defense Force conducted the first test flight of the Type 12 air-launched anti-ship missile at Gifu. This missile, with a range of approximately 1000 kilometers, enhances Japan's stand-off defense capabilities, allowing engagement from outside enemy air defense zones. The test signifies a strategic shift in Japan's naval engagement approach, integrating various platforms for a comprehensive defense strategy.

Tanaka TakashiSat Aug 01 2026Loading...

Russian forces conducted large-scale strikes on Ukrainian military-industrial facilities in Kyiv and Kyiv Oblast from the night of July 31 to the early morning of August 1. The strikes utilized land-based and sea-based precision weapons, as well as attack drones, targeting facilities involved in missile and drone production. Intense explosions were reported in Kyiv, with confirmed casualties according to the city's mayor.

The People's Liberation Army (PLA) conducted live-fire training with an amphibious infantry fighting vehicle at sea on July 10, engaging simulated targets while navigating towards the beach. This exercise underscores the importance of maintaining formation and fire rhythm under challenging conditions. The training is part of a broader effort to integrate various military capabilities, including air support and naval operations, for effective amphibious assaults.

Li MinghuiSat Aug 01 2026Loading...

The Shandong Carrier Group conducted naval operations in the Western Pacific, where pilot Wang Zhongyuan engaged in air combat training with the J-15T fighter aircraft. The J-15T demonstrated strong anti-jamming capabilities, allowing for long-range target engagement. This reflects a strategic shift towards beyond-visual-range combat, emphasizing the increasing combat readiness of naval aviation units.

The Zunyi Ship of the Chinese Navy successfully executed a night strike on maritime targets while maintaining continuous monitoring of an enemy submarine. The operation involved tracking the submarine and simulating torpedo attacks, demonstrating effective naval engagement tactics.

The Sichuan Navy conducted its first live ammunition firing and revealed electromagnetic catapult tests for the Sichuan ship. This vessel features a new domestically produced power system and aims to enhance capabilities for unmanned operations in deep sea. The average age of the initial crew is 25 years, marking a significant step in modern naval warfare capabilities.

The U.S. Air Force announced the development of the F-47 NGAD fighter, which is expected to fly before January 2029. Boeing was awarded the Engineering and Manufacturing Development contract in March 2025. The F-47 will feature a combat radius exceeding 1,000 nautical miles and will operate alongside over 150 Collaborative Combat Aircraft. This new fighter is designed for advanced warfare with enhanced stealth and sensor capabilities.

The U.S. Air Force announced the development of the F-47 NGAD fighter, which is expected to fly before January 2029. The fighter will have a combat radius exceeding 1,000 nautical miles and will operate alongside over 150 Collaborative Combat Aircraft. Boeing was awarded the Engineering and Manufacturing Development contract in March 2025, and the F-47 is designed for advanced warfare with next-generation stealth and sensor fusion capabilities.

Russia delivered two Tu-160M strategic bombers in 2025, adding to its fleet of 15 active Tu-160 and Tu-160M bombers. The production of these bombers was approved in 2015, with a contract for ten aircraft signed in 2018. The modernization includes new systems and engines, enhancing their operational capabilities.

The Royal Navy's two Queen Elizabeth-class aircraft carriers, HMS Queen Elizabeth and HMS Prince of Wales, have faced significant mechanical failures, including propulsion issues. HMS Queen Elizabeth withdrew from NATO exercises in early 2024, and sailors reported a lack of reliable hot water, forcing some to live ashore. These issues highlight ongoing logistical challenges within the Royal Navy.

HII's unmanned business is rapidly expanding, with the CEO noting modest current revenue but significant growth potential as the Navy increases its unmanned fleet. The Navy recently extended a $350 million contract for the Lionfish unmanned undersea vehicle, and HII anticipates a 5% growth in its Mission Technologies division over the next five years, aiming for $3.2 billion in revenue by fiscal year 2026.

The U.S. Air Force's F-35A, despite being a newer aircraft, has an average availability comparable to that of a 36-year-old F-16C/D. The flyaway cost for the F-35A is reported at $82.5 million, with operational costs significantly higher than those of the F-16. The F-35 program is projected to cost $2.1 trillion, raising questions about its value relative to its advanced capabilities.

A Marine Corps F-35B fighter jet crashed at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar in California at approximately 10 a.m. local time. The pilot ejected and is currently in stable condition at a local medical facility. Emergency personnel responded to the incident, and the F-35 Joint Program Office is supporting the investigation.

The U.S. Air Force faces significant cost and schedule risks in upgrading the B-52 Stratofortress bombers, with a projected $21 billion for 13 upgrades. Key efforts, including the engine replacement and radar modernization, are experiencing budget overruns and delays, potentially impacting operational capabilities. The Government Accountability Office has issued recommendations to address these challenges.

China's Shenyang Aircraft Corporation developed the J-35A stealth fighter, which was officially presented in November 2024. The aircraft is designed to enhance the capabilities of the People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) and complement the J-20. Despite its operational status, specific performance metrics remain undisclosed. A new production facility is being established to support large-scale manufacturing of the J-35A.

The USS Long Beach (CGN-9) was commissioned in September 1961 as the first nuclear-powered surface combatant, showcasing advanced radar and missile systems. It served extensively during the Cold War, providing air defense and naval support, before being retired in 1995. The vessel's design and technology influenced modern naval warfare, marking a significant transition from traditional artillery to guided missiles.

China deployed 11 J-20 stealth fighters to Hotan Air Base and Damxung Air Base in late June and early July 2023. This deployment places the aircraft within operational range of key Indian military positions, signaling a potential challenge to Indian air superiority. The Chinese government has not commented on the purpose or readiness of these aircraft.

A missile believed to be a Kh-101 crossed into Polish airspace near Tarnawa-Kolonia, prompting discussions on Poland's response. Polish F-16s were scrambled to intercept missiles during a Russian strike on Ukraine. The incident raises questions about NATO's collective defense and Poland's potential actions regarding missile interceptions over Ukraine.

The U.S. Air Force operates 179 F-22 Raptors, which cost approximately $85,325 per flight hour. The total program cost is around $33.2 billion, with maintenance and operational expenses being significantly high. The F-22 remains a critical asset despite its high costs, especially in the context of great-power competition with Russia and China.