Analysis & Reports

The Fujian aircraft carrier is expected to participate in military exercises around Taiwan, enhancing the region's anti-access capabilities. Its advanced electromagnetic catapult technology allows for higher launch efficiency, making it a significant asset in the ongoing military posture in the area.

U.S. Marines conducted live-fire training with the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) at the Higashi-Fuji training area in Shizuoka Prefecture on May 20, causing temporary closures of National Route 469. Local residents protested the exercise due to safety concerns, fearing it may become a regular occurrence. The U.S. Department of Defense stated that the training is not aimed at any specific country but is crucial for Japan's defense and regional security.

The Dalian Maritime Safety Administration issued a navigation warning prohibiting entry into certain areas of the Bohai Strait and Yellow Sea due to military operations scheduled from May 24, 16:00 to May 31, 16:00.

The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force's JS Kaga will conduct F-35B training at Iwakuni from June 1-4, 2026. This training aims to prepare for deck operations and logistical support for the F-35B aircraft, as Japan plans to acquire a total of 42 units. The exercise is part of Japan's efforts to integrate F-35B capabilities into its naval operations, indicating a significant step towards enhanced military readiness in the Indo-Pacific region.

Tanaka TakashiSat May 23 2026Loading...

China's fourth aircraft carrier is visibly taking shape at the Dalian shipyard as of May 21, 2023, indicating advancements in its construction and potential nuclear capabilities. The U.S. Department of Defense has assessed that China could possess nine aircraft carriers by 2035. However, operational challenges regarding aircraft deployment and maintenance persist, highlighting the complexities of integrating new naval technologies.

Li MinghuiSat May 23 2026Loading...

U.S. Marines conducted a live-fire training exercise with HIMARS, firing 12 rounds at Mount Fuji on May 20, 2026. This exercise, involving two HIMARS units, aimed to enhance operational readiness and deterrence capabilities in the region. The training emphasized deployment and withdrawal procedures, reflecting a shift towards mobile firepower in Japan.

Tanaka TakashiSat May 23 2026Loading...

The Eastern Theater Command Air Force conducted day and night flight training exercises aimed at enhancing the tactical skills of pilots and support personnel. This training is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen the unit's combat readiness.

Japan commissioned the JS Natori, its ninth Mogami-class frigate, at Ominato Naval Base, enhancing its naval capabilities with a reduced crew size of 90. This frigate is equipped with advanced weaponry and sensors, contributing to Japan's strategy of maintaining a presence in the Western Pacific amid regional security challenges. The design has garnered international interest, indicating its operational relevance.

Marcus ChenFri May 22 2026Loading...

The Zhejiang Maritime Safety Administration announced military training exercises in the East China Sea, prohibiting civilian vessels from entering the area from May 23 at 22:30 to May 24 at 13:30, and again on May 24 from 10:30 to 13:30.

Taiwan's government stated it has not received any information regarding delays in U.S. arms sales. U.S. officials indicated a pause in sales to ensure sufficient munitions for operations against Iran. Taiwan's defense ministry continues to monitor U.S. security cooperation and maintain communication to ensure arms sales proceed as planned.

The Royal Thai Air Force has ordered two Airbus C295 tactical transport aircraft to enhance its defense capabilities. These aircraft will be operated by the 46th Wing Division from Phitsanulok air base, with the first delivery expected in the first half of 2029. This acquisition adds to the existing fleet of three C295s operated by the Royal Thai Army since 2016.

South Korea's defense industry has developed a remote-controlled weapon station (RCWS) that enhances battlefield safety by allowing operators to engage targets from within their vehicles. This system integrates advanced sensors and stabilization technology, enabling coordinated operations among multiple units. It is designed to operate effectively in adverse weather conditions and includes features for ammunition resupply without exposing the crew to danger.

Japan's Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi met with Marco Zoff, CEO of Edgewing, to emphasize the critical nature of the next-generation fighter program for Japan's air capabilities. The program, involving Japan, the UK, and Italy, aims to develop a sixth-generation stealth fighter by 2035, reflecting Japan's strategic goal of enhancing its defense industrial sovereignty. The meeting highlighted the urgency of advancing the program amid complex engineering challenges.

South Korea finalized a $352 million deal to acquire SM-6 missile interceptors for its Aegis destroyer fleet, with operational capability expected by 2034. The deal includes equipping three destroyers, enhancing their ability to counter threats from North Korea and China. The SM-6 missiles will significantly improve naval air defense capabilities against anti-ship ballistic missiles and cruise missiles.

The People's Liberation Army (PLA) conducted live-fire training with a PCL-181 155mm self-propelled howitzer in Xinjiang in late April. This training reflects a reassessment of artillery mobility in the region, emphasizing rapid deployment capabilities. The use of this artillery system suggests a shift towards integrating heavier firepower at lower command levels, which may impact regional military dynamics.

Li MinghuiFri May 22 2026Loading...

On May 21, two B-52 bombers and three F-35 fighters conducted a joint air training exercise over the Sea of Japan, involving the U.S. Air Force and Japan Air Self-Defense Force. This exercise coincided with the return of the USS George Washington to Yokosuka, emphasizing the military cooperation between the U.S. and Japan in response to regional threats. The training aimed to enhance operational integration and demonstrate deterrence capabilities.

Tanaka TakashiFri May 22 2026Loading...

The Beihai Maritime Police conducted a successful rescue operation for a man stranded after a ship sank in Beihai, Guangxi. Despite challenging sea conditions with winds reaching force 6, the police managed to rescue the individual within 40 minutes. The rescued man was found to be in good health.

The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force's Kaga will dock at Iwakuni from June 1-4, 2024, to conduct training exercises for F-35B operations. This training aims to integrate local bases, municipalities, and U.S. Marine Corps procedures. Japan plans to acquire 42 F-35B aircraft, with ongoing logistical preparations for their operational use. The Kaga is also set to participate in RIMPAC 2026 in Hawaii, highlighting its role in regional defense capabilities.

Tanaka TakashiFri May 22 2026Loading...

The Southern Theater Command Air Force is conducting high-intensity day-and-night flight training exercises to enhance the unit's capabilities for all-weather combat operations. This training involves multiple batches of aircraft and is aligned with real combat requirements.

The United States is preparing to establish a military presence on the moon to counter China's ambitions in space. A policy paper from the Mitchell Institute argues that lunar resources are vital for U.S. national security and warns that China's military-led lunar program poses a strategic threat. The report advocates for the Space Force to develop a military human spaceflight program to deter potential Chinese occupation of the moon.