Analysis & Reports
AI-assisted analysis of military-related information from public sources
The Navy's Shipbuilding Capability of the People's Liberation Army Leads 2 to 1: Can China's Fleet Size Advantage Be Transformed into Combat Power in the Taiwan Strait?
China's naval shipbuilding capacity is assessed to be twice that of the United States, with significant implications for military operations in the Taiwan Strait. The People's Liberation Army Navy focuses on continuous ship production and logistical support, emphasizing the need for operational readiness and training. The Type 055 destroyer exemplifies China's advancements in naval technology, but challenges remain in crew training and operational integration.
Li MinghuiMon Oct 26 2026Loading...
Japan-US Keen Sword 26: Japan's Type-25 Missile Makes Its Debut, 1000 km Range Changes Southwest Islands Defense
Japan's Type-25 missile system participated for the first time in the Keen Sword 26 exercise on October 25, 2026, at Kumamoto, focusing on long-range firepower integration. Approximately 57,000 personnel from nine countries are involved in this operational verification exercise. The U.S. Marine Corps also deployed NMESIS and MADIS systems on Yonaguni Island, enhancing joint capabilities in the region.
Tanaka TakashiMon Oct 26 2026Loading...
High-Definition Images! Latest Footage of J-15 Red-Blue Combat Training
The Naval Aviation University conducted multi-subject flight training exercises involving J-15 fighter jets to assess pilots' physiological and psychological capabilities as well as their tactical skills. This training included both day and night operations.
The Liaoning and USS Roosevelt Appear in the Philippine Sea at the Same Time: Exercises and Real Combat Overlap at the Reconnaissance Level
On October 25, the Chinese Navy's Liaoning Carrier Group and the U.S. Navy's USS Theodore Roosevelt were reported to be operating simultaneously in the Philippine Sea. The ongoing Keen Sword 27 exercise, involving over 50,000 personnel, is taking place in nearby waters. Chinese military assets are reportedly tracking these exercises, highlighting the military significance of the overlapping operations.
Li MinghuiSun Oct 25 2026Loading...
China's Liaoning and a US Carrier Test the 2026 Philippine Sea
China's Liaoning and a U.S. aircraft carrier may operate simultaneously in the Philippine Sea, testing their operational capabilities. This situation arises amid the Keen Sword 27 exercise conducted by Japanese and U.S. forces near Taiwan. The Liaoning, a Type 001 carrier, faces limitations compared to U.S. carriers, highlighting the strategic implications of naval presence in the region.
Marcus ChenSun Oct 25 2026Loading...
US expands alcohol restrictions for troops in Japan
The U.S. has implemented expanded alcohol restrictions for troops participating in the Keen Sword exercise in Japan, which involves over 50,000 personnel. Troops are prohibited from consuming alcohol on or off base and are subject to a curfew. These measures follow a recent incident involving a Marine's arrest for murder, prompting Japan's government to seek stronger regulations on U.S. military personnel.
China's Liaoning Carrier Turns 2026 Voyages Into a Pacific Operating Pattern
The Liaoning carrier group conducted training exercises in the western Pacific on October 14, 2026, including multiple aircraft takeoffs and landings south of Ishigaki Island. This deployment is part of a routine training plan for the People's Liberation Army Navy, marking at least the sixth distant deployment of the Liaoning since its service began. The operation coincided with the U.S.-Japan Keen Sword 27 exercise, highlighting the strategic significance of the carrier's presence in the region.
Marcus ChenSun Oct 25 2026Loading...
Liaoning Ship's Regular Long-Distance Voyages in 2026: The PLA's Three Aircraft Carrier Training Chain Begins to Take Shape
The Liaoning aircraft carrier conducted training exercises in the Western Pacific from October 14 to 23, 2026, accompanied by two large destroyers and one missile destroyer. The exercises included aircraft takeoffs and landings near southern islands of Japan and may extend towards the South China Sea. This deployment is part of a routine training schedule aimed at enhancing combat readiness and coincided with U.S.-Japan joint military exercises.
Li MinghuiSun Oct 25 2026Loading...
The 2026 Keen Sword 27 Tests the U.S.-Japan Alliance's Island Supply and Multinational Operations
The USS Theodore Roosevelt departed Yokosuka on October 19, 2026, to participate in the Keen Sword 27 joint military exercises involving approximately 57,000 personnel from Japan, the U.S., and seven other countries. The exercises focus on island supply and multinational operations, integrating Type-25 anti-ship missiles for the first time. Logistical support is emphasized as crucial for sustaining operations in the region.
Tanaka TakashiSun Oct 25 2026Loading...The PLA Liaoning Aircraft Carrier's Regular Offshore Training in 2026: Transitioning from Trial Voyages to System Integration
The Liaoning aircraft carrier conducted routine training exercises in the western Pacific from October 14 to October 23, 2026, reaching areas near southern Japan and moving towards the South China Sea. This operation marks a shift from trial voyages to systematic training, enhancing the operational capabilities of the People's Liberation Army Navy. The carrier's evolving role emphasizes the integration of training and operational readiness within the Chinese naval forces.
Li MinghuiSun Oct 25 2026Loading...
"The Red Plate Reflects the Original Aspiration (On the Road to Strengthening the Army: Entering the Heroic Long March Unit)"
The 83rd Group Army's Red Company conducted training exercises in Hui Li, Sichuan, reflecting on its historical significance during the Long March. The unit emphasizes its traditions and the spirit of perseverance, using historical artifacts like the red enamel plate as motivational symbols. Recent activities included physical training and a commitment to uphold the values of the Red Army.
October 2026: The Reality of Air Defense in the East China Sea Demonstrated by the Japan-U.S. Joint Training of F-22 and F-15
On October 14, 2026, Japan Air Self-Defense Force F-15s and E-767 aircraft participated in a joint tactical training exercise with U.S. Air Force F-22s in the East China Sea. The exercise aimed to enhance air defense capabilities and demonstrated the military collaboration between Japan and the U.S. Political statements from both nations emphasized the importance of deterrence against threats from China and North Korea.
Tanaka TakashiSun Oct 25 2026Loading...
Army activates new air defense unit in Guam
The Army activated the 3rd Battalion, 43rd Air Defense Artillery Regiment on Guam on October 16, replacing Task Force Talon. This new battalion will oversee air defense operations, utilizing systems such as THAAD and Patriot missiles. Guam's strategic location makes it a critical site for U.S. military operations in the Pacific, and the Army is enhancing its air defense capabilities in the region.
Kim Jong-un Visits China via the New Yalu River Bridge and Activates the US Military's Guam Air Defense Battalion to Reshape Northeast Asia's Deterrence by 2026
Kim Jong-un visited Dandong, China on October 24, 2026, using a newly opened bridge, marking his first visit to China in over a year. Concurrently, the US Army activated an air defense battalion in Guam, enhancing its defensive posture amid rising tensions. The visit and military developments signal strategic shifts in Northeast Asia, with implications for regional security dynamics.
Tanaka TakashiSat Oct 24 2026Loading...China's Liaoning Carrier Is Turning Training Voyages Into Pacific Presence
The People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) deployed the Liaoning aircraft carrier group to the western Pacific from October 14 to 23, 2026, conducting training exercises near Japan and the Philippines. This deployment included two large destroyers and a guided-missile destroyer, contributing to the operational capabilities of China's carrier fleet. The activities are part of a broader strategy to normalize naval presence in contested waters, enhancing China's maritime operational experience and pressure on regional adversaries.
Marcus ChenSat Oct 24 2026Loading...
The Battleship USS Indiana Was Struck During Night Maneuvers in January 1944 by the USS Washington, Whose Bow Tore Through Her Starboard Side and Was Left Embedded in Her Hull
In January 1944, during night maneuvers, the USS Washington's bow struck the USS Indiana, damaging its starboard side. The incident forced the Indiana to return to port for major repairs. The Indiana had previously participated in key battles in the Pacific Theater, showcasing its significant naval capabilities.
Russia and China step up spy flights near Japan
China and Russia conducted military intelligence flights near Japan from October 20 to 23, 2023, prompting the Japan Air Self-Defense Force to scramble fighters each day. The operations included three Chinese Y-9 aircraft and two Russian IL-20 aircraft, which flew over the Pacific and the Sea of Japan without violating Japanese airspace. These flights occurred during the U.S.-Japan joint exercise Keen Sword, involving significant military personnel and equipment.
U.S. air base in Japan to block Chinese BYD cars over data fears
Kadena Air Base in Okinawa will prohibit all vehicles made by Chinese electric carmaker BYD from entering the base starting October 26 due to concerns over data security. The 18th Security Forces Squadron will enforce this ban at all gates, reflecting ongoing U.S. military precautions against potential data breaches from foreign technology. This decision follows similar actions taken by other nations regarding Chinese-made vehicles.
Japan weighs rewrite of its military AI policy
Japanese Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi announced a review of the military AI policy on October 19, 2024, citing the rapid advancement of AI technology. The current policy, established on July 2, 2024, outlines priority areas for AI use within the Ministry of Defense and Self-Defense Forces. The review will also address the role of human oversight in AI decision-making.
China, South Korea jointly patrol in Yellow Sea
China and South Korea completed a 10-day joint maritime law enforcement patrol in the Yellow Sea, involving the China Coast Guard ship Changshan and the South Korean vessel Mugunghwa 42. The patrol covered over 1,200 nautical miles, during which 123 fishing vessels were monitored, and 3 were inspected. This operation is part of a bilateral fisheries agreement aimed at managing fishing activities in overlapping economic zones.
