Analysis & Reports

Unit 731 conducted secret transfers of 1556 individuals for human experimentation in Harbin during the Second Sino-Japanese War. This 'special transfer' system bypassed legal proceedings, allowing the Japanese military to systematically acquire subjects for inhumane experiments. The operations were documented through internal reports and are recognized as state crimes against humanity.

Japan plans to introduce approximately 52,000 unmanned systems for long-range strikes and intelligence gathering from 2027 to 2031. The defense budget is expected to rise significantly, with over 9 trillion yen allocated for enhancing capabilities, including advanced drones and hypersonic missiles. This initiative raises concerns about escalating regional arms races.

A Chinese Coast Guard vessel collided with the Philippine government ship BRP Datu Magat Salamat near Palawan on Friday, 2026, while it was delivering fuel to fishermen. The incident, described by the Philippine Coast Guard as a deliberate strike, occurred within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone. No injuries were reported, but the ship sustained significant damage. This collision is part of ongoing tensions in the South China Sea, with both nations asserting conflicting claims over the waters.

On September 18, the Philippine vessel 3015 intentionally collided with a Chinese Coast Guard vessel during a rights enforcement operation near Xianbin Reef in the Spratly Islands. The incident involved the Philippine vessel attempting to cut across the bow of the Chinese vessel, resulting in a collision. The Chinese Coast Guard maintained a stable course throughout the encounter, which was characterized as a provocation by the Chinese authorities.

The U.S. Navy proposed a strategy to target China's Fujian aircraft carrier, treating it as a potential threat rather than a defensive asset. This strategy, reported by CSIS on September 17, 2026, involves utilizing 300 unmanned vessels alongside submarines and missile systems to create operational risks for China in the South China Sea and around Taiwan. Japan is expected to play a significant role in monitoring and supporting these operations.

Tanaka TakashiFri Sep 18 2026Loading...

South Korean President Lee Jae-myung announced that South Korea will not deploy military forces to the Strait of Hormuz. He emphasized that the country will take minimal actions to protect its commercial vessels and citizens. The Cheonghae Unit is already present in the region to address security threats, and South Korea is considering enhancing its military presence in response to these threats.

Military personnel from the Northern Theater Navy and Army Branches engaged in various commemorative activities in Dalian and Shenyang to mark the 95th anniversary of the September 18 Incident. These activities included visits to historical museums, lectures on military history, and discussions on enhancing military readiness. The events aimed to instill a sense of historical awareness and patriotism among the troops.

The U.S. Air Force operates 183 F-22 Raptors and over 800 F-35s, while China has around 500 J-20s and 60 J-35s, with production rates of 120 J-20s annually. The J-20's combat range of 1,200 miles exceeds that of the F-22, which has a range of 530 miles. The report highlights the growing challenge posed by China's mass production capabilities to U.S. air dominance.

The U.S. think tank Center for Strategic and International Studies proposed that the U.S. Navy should target Chinese aircraft carriers, viewing them as a strategic vulnerability. The report outlines tactics involving submarines and land-based missiles to counter China's growing naval capabilities. It highlights the need for the U.S. to adapt its naval strategy and increase its submarine fleet to effectively challenge the People's Liberation Army Navy.

Japan plans to introduce approximately 52,000 drones for long-range strikes and intelligence gathering between 2027 and 2031 as part of its defense strategy. The government aims to counter threats from China, Russia, and North Korea, with a defense budget projected to reach 70-80 trillion yen. This military expansion has sparked public criticism regarding the allocation of resources and potential impacts on civilian sectors.

The 13th Beijing Xiangshan Forum concluded in Beijing on September 17, 2023, with around 2000 attendees from over 100 countries. Discussions focused on international order, strategic stability, and security governance, highlighting the need for consensus in the current international environment. The forum serves as a platform for dialogue and cooperation on global security initiatives.

China significantly reduced its troop deployment along the Northern Borders in 2025, with 10 Combined Arms Brigade size forces noted. This reduction follows increased political, diplomatic, and military engagement between India and China, aimed at easing tensions. Despite the reduction, India maintains a robust military presence along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and continues to develop infrastructure in the region.

The 13th Beijing Xiangshan Forum concluded on October 17, 2023, focusing on Asian security and cooperation among nearly 100 participating countries. Key discussions emphasized the need for dialogue and multilateral cooperation to address security concerns in the region, with notable contributions from former Japanese Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama and experts from Malaysia and Vietnam.

Chinese Vice Chairman Zhang Shengmin met with Indonesian Defense Minister Prabowo in Beijing on October 17, 2023, to discuss military cooperation and strategic partnership. They emphasized the importance of enhancing bilateral military relations and contributing to regional stability. Both sides agreed to strengthen communication and practical cooperation in various fields.

The Beijing Xiangshan Forum concluded on October 17, 2023, with discussions on global security governance and multipolarity involving representatives from nearly 100 countries. Key topics included the role of China in promoting peace and the importance of developing countries in international security matters. The forum served as a platform for diverse nations to express their views on security challenges.

The Chinese Airborne Forces celebrated their 76th anniversary on September 17, 2026, marking their evolution from a small, weak unit to a strong military force. The report highlights their dedication to serving at the forefront of national defense, emphasizing their historical significance and resilience in challenging situations.

China's defense chief urged caution against the resurgence of hegemony and militarism during the 13th Beijing Xiangshan Forum on September 16, 2026. He emphasized military cooperation with nations such as Myanmar and Brunei while promoting shared security. The Japanese defense white paper noted China's expanding naval activities in the Pacific, indicating a potential threat to regional stability.

Tanaka TakashiThu Sep 17 2026Loading...

Australia is training personnel and integrating local companies into submarine supply chains in Western and South Australia as part of the AUKUS partnership. The partnership has not yet produced an Australian nuclear-powered attack submarine, with the first expected in the early 2040s. The U.S. Navy's production of Virginia-class submarines is facing significant delays, impacting Australia's submarine capabilities.

Marcus ChenWed Sep 16 2026Loading...

China urged the U.S. to stop its military build-up in outer space, warning that it could lead to a global arms race. U.S. officials acknowledged the deployment of space control weapons, marking a significant shift in military strategy. Chinese analysts expressed concerns that continued U.S. actions may force other nations to enhance their counter-space capabilities, creating a security dilemma.

Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun held talks with defense ministers from Thailand, Mongolia, Cambodia, and Singapore in Beijing on October 16. The discussions centered on enhancing defense cooperation and addressing global governance challenges, emphasizing mutual trust and collaboration among the nations involved.