Analysis & Reports

South Korea is accelerating the transfer of wartime operational command from the U.S. to South Korea, with the final assessment expected to be completed within one year. Disagreements remain between the two nations regarding the specific timeline. A joint roadmap for the transfer is being developed, with hopes to finalize it before the end of the Trump administration.

China is developing an extensive automated network of drones and sensors for military use, including the Atlas Swarm-2 capable of launching 96 drones rapidly. The WZ-8 reconnaissance drone operates at high altitudes and speeds, while the Jiu Tian SS-UAV serves as a mothership for sub-drones. This advancement poses significant challenges to US naval operations in the Indo-Pacific region.

Japan is exporting outdated Type 88 anti-ship missiles to the Philippines as part of a strategy to enhance military cooperation and establish a blockade system in the first island chain. This move follows significant reforms in Japan's defense policy, allowing for weapon exports. The deployment of these missiles is intended to strengthen regional security against potential threats, particularly from China.

L3Harris Technologies delivered T4 and T7 multi-mission robotic systems to the Australian Defence Force (ADF) to enhance personnel protection operations in Australia.

Australia is commencing the life-extension upgrade of HMAS Farncomb, the first Collins-class submarine, to sustain its undersea capabilities. This upgrade is part of a US$11 billion investment in submarine sustainment over the next decade, ensuring the Collins fleet remains operational until at least 2040. The program is critical as Australia transitions to nuclear-powered submarines under AUKUS, with the first Virginia-class submarines expected in the early 2030s.

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Israeli military conducted airstrikes in multiple locations across Gaza on May 21, 2025, resulting in at least 4 fatalities. The strikes occurred in Rafah, Khan Younis, and Beit Lahia, with additional demolitions of residential buildings reported in Gaza City and Khan Younis. Since the ceasefire agreement in October 2025, Israeli operations have caused significant casualties in the region.

The U.S. has approved a $4 billion sale of helicopters and parts to South Korea, which is said to bolster its military strength. North Korea's Foreign Ministry has condemned these sales, asserting they are the root cause of military tension in the Asia-Pacific region. The commentary highlights North Korea's intent to upgrade its defense capabilities to counter perceived security threats.

The Zhanjiang Maritime Safety Administration announced live-fire exercises in the Gulf of Tonkin from May 22 to May 28, prohibiting access to the area during this period. The exercises will involve the use of live ammunition.

The Scorpion Light 81mm mobile mortar system automates the call for fire process, enhancing accuracy and efficiency. It was tested by the 2nd Battalion, 35th Infantry Regiment at Fort Magsaysay, Philippines, on April 24, 2026. The system can fire eight rounds in two minutes and is designed for use in diverse terrains without the need for a base plate. It utilizes GPS technology for precise targeting and is being evaluated for compatibility with various military vehicles.

The U.S. INDOPACOM Mission Network was operationally tested during the Balikatan 2026 military exercise in the Philippines, integrating forces from the U.S., Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Canada, and the Philippines. The exercise focused on command and control operations, utilizing various military equipment including Tomahawk missiles and HIMARS. A Combined Coordination Center was established to enhance coalition data-sharing and operational effectiveness.

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China and Russia criticized the U.S. Golden Dome missile defense system on May 20, 2026, viewing it as a threat to strategic stability. The system is characterized as a network of sensors that could increase the costs for China's missile forces to penetrate U.S. defenses. The report highlights differing concerns between the two nations regarding the implications of this system for their military strategies.

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The Japan Cooperation Team (JCT) was established to enhance crisis response coordination between U.S. Forces Japan and the Japan Self-Defense Forces, based in Tokyo. This initiative aims to improve daily cooperation and communication during crises, marking a significant step in military collaboration. The JCT is intended to facilitate timely decision-making and information sharing to address security challenges in the region effectively.

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Philippine President Marcos is set to visit Japan on May 26, 2023, to enhance security cooperation and discuss energy collaboration. He welcomes Japan's revision of defense export principles, marking a new phase in Philippine-Japanese relations. Ongoing joint military exercises between the U.S. and the Philippines include participation from Japan's Self-Defense Forces.

Indonesia continues to enhance its defense capabilities by acquiring new military equipment, including 6 Dassault Rafale fighter jets, as part of a larger procurement deal for 42 jets. President Prabowo Subianto stated the importance of strengthening national defense to form a deterrent force. The recent deliveries occurred on January 18 and May 18, 2023, at an air force base in Jakarta.

The U.S. Department of State approved over $4 billion in military sales to South Korea on May 18, 2023. This includes 24 MH-60R Seahawk helicopters valued at $3 billion and $1.2 billion for upgrading Apache helicopters. The sales are intended to bolster South Korea's defense capabilities against current and future threats.

The People's Liberation Army (PLA) emphasized the development of low-cost and efficient counter-drone systems on May 21. The PLA is shifting its focus from simply acquiring equipment to ensuring sustainable operational costs and effective data feedback loops. This approach is particularly relevant in the context of potential conflicts in the Taiwan Strait, where various drone threats are anticipated.

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The 83rd Group Army conducted tactical exercises in China, focusing on artillery coordination, mobility deployment, and fire strikes. The exercises involved rapid positioning and reconnaissance using drones, with a goal to improve response times and battlefield adaptability. Artillery units successfully executed multiple fire missions, demonstrating effective coordination and combat readiness.

The Naval Aviation Force of the Eastern Theater Command conducted cross-day and long-duration flight training to enhance all-weather operational capabilities. During the exercise, aircraft identified and responded to suspicious targets while managing complex electromagnetic interference. Ground support teams efficiently prepared the aircraft for subsequent missions, solidifying the unit's readiness for diverse military tasks.

Japan's Self-Defense Forces are revising their defense policy to include equipping next-generation submarines with long-range missiles, as revealed on May 18, 2026. This shift aims to enhance deterrence capabilities against potential threats, particularly from China. The current submarine fleet, including the Soryu-class, is already equipped with advanced missile systems, and the integration of long-range missiles will require significant changes in command and control systems.

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The Army Air Defense Unit is conducting cross-regional long-distance railway mobilization training in China. This training focuses on enhancing the unit's rapid loading and long-distance mobility capabilities over recent days.