Analysis & Reports
AI-assisted analysis of military-related information from public sources
The 2026 Two Sessions Under Xi Jinping's Anti-Corruption Storm: Expansion of Defense Budget and Military Reconstruction
In March 2026, the People's Liberation Army purged 101 senior military officers as part of an anti-corruption campaign while announcing a defense budget exceeding $300 billion. This budget reflects China's ongoing military modernization efforts, including the development of nuclear-powered aircraft carriers. The political implications of these actions signal a strategic shift in response to regional security threats, particularly concerning energy security in the Strait of Hormuz.
Li MinghuiSun Mar 01 2026Loading...
Psychology Suggests No Solider Would Fight for 30 Years After World War II Was Over. And Yet, 1 Japanese Solider Surrendered in 1974
Hiroo Onoda, a lieutenant in the Imperial Japanese Army, survived on Lubang Island from 1944 until March 1974, believing World War II was still ongoing. He and three other soldiers ignored attempts to inform them of the war's end, surviving on coconuts and rice while engaging in guerrilla actions. Onoda finally surrendered when his former commander came to relieve him of duty.
Starting today, the entire military officially uses reserve personnel certificates!
The People's Liberation Army officially began issuing the Reserve Personnel Certificate on March 1, 2023, which serves as valid identification for reserve personnel. This certificate replaces the previous officer certificate and reflects the dual identity of reserve personnel as both civilians and military members. Legislation has been enacted to protect their rights, and the selection process includes specific criteria for eligibility.
Satellite Images Reveal Clues About Nuclear Power: Construction of China's Type 004 Aircraft Carrier Enters Key Stage
Recent satellite images reveal that the construction of China's Type 004 aircraft carrier at Dalian Shipyard has reached a critical phase, suggesting the potential for nuclear propulsion. Experts note similarities to U.S. Ford-class carriers, indicating advanced technology. If confirmed, this would mark China as the third nation to build a nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, significantly enhancing its naval capabilities.
Li MinghuiSun Mar 01 2026Loading...
The New Phase of South China Sea Security Indicated by the Joint Exercises of Japan, the United States, and the Philippines: Deployment to the Bashi Channel and China's Response
Joint military exercises involving the Philippine Navy, U.S. Navy, and Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force were conducted in the Bashi Channel from February 20-26, 2026. The exercises marked a significant shift in security cooperation, expanding the operational area and enhancing interoperability among the three nations. Chinese naval forces monitored the exercises and engaged in signal jamming, highlighting regional tensions.
Tanaka TakashiSun Mar 01 2026Loading..."Golden Cobra" Military Exercise Held in Thailand
On February 26, 2023, the 45th Cobra Gold multinational military exercise began with a large-scale amphibious assault drill at Hatyai, Thailand, involving approximately 8000 soldiers from 30 countries, including the U.S. Marine Corps and forces from Thailand, Singapore, and South Korea. The exercise focuses on integrating new technologies for cyber warfare and communication monitoring, marking a significant evolution in its operational scope since its inception in 1982.
Strategic Turning Point in Northeast Asia: Analysis of the Security Environment in March 2026
China conducted live-fire military exercises in the Yellow Sea and engaged in provocative actions near the Miyako Strait from November 2025 to March 2026. Diplomatic tensions escalated between China and Japan following statements from Japanese officials regarding Taiwan. The U.S. and Japan strengthened their alliance through strategic dialogues addressing regional security concerns.
Tanaka TakashiSun Mar 01 2026Loading...
China’s New Aircraft Carriers Have 1 Big Advantage over the U.S. Navy They Can’t Match
China has established a robust Anti-Access/Area-Denial (A2/AD) strategy that protects its aircraft carrier fleet and deters U.S. Navy operations in the Indo-Pacific. This strategy utilizes a dense inventory of Anti-Ship Ballistic Missiles (ASBMs) and hypersonic missiles, forcing U.S. carriers to operate from a distance. The geographical advantages and advanced missile systems give China a significant edge in any potential maritime conflict.
Yuyuantan Tian | "Four Machines" Appear Together! The People's Liberation Army Enters the So-Called "Joint Patrol" Area of the Philippines, the United States, Japan, and Australia
The People's Liberation Army conducted combat readiness patrols in the Scarborough Shoal area on February 28. Official video footage reveals pilots discussing their operations, indicating a direct military presence in a region claimed by the Philippines, the US, Japan, and Australia.
Pentagon Commits $12.6 Billion for China Surveillance as US Indo-Pacific Posture Intensifies
The U.S. announced a $12.6 billion investment in surveillance and deterrence operations in the Indo-Pacific on February 24, 2026, amid growing concerns over China's military expansion. This includes the launch of Cobra Gold 2026, a multilateral military exercise in Thailand involving 8,000 personnel from 30 nations. The AUKUS partnership is also progressing with submarine cooperation, enhancing regional security efforts.
Marcus ChenSat Feb 28 2026Loading...
World leaders fear broader escalation after major US and Israeli attack on Iran
U.S. and Israeli forces launched strikes on Iran, prompting emergency meetings among European leaders on Saturday. French President Macron called for a U.N. Security Council meeting, while leaders from Germany and the U.K. discussed the escalating situation. The strikes have raised fears of a broader conflict, with various international leaders condemning the actions and calling for restraint and negotiations regarding Iran's nuclear program.
Competing with Dick Bong to be WWII’s top ace this pilot met a fateful end
Major Thomas McGuire Jr. was reported missing in action on January 7, 1945, while leading a fighter sweep over Negros Island, Philippines. During the mission, he attempted to save a fellow pilot from an enemy attack but crashed his P-38L Lightning. McGuire was a highly decorated ace, having shot down 38 enemy aircraft before his disappearance, and was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for his bravery.
UAE warns Iran over missile attacks on Gulf states
The United Arab Emirates condemned Iranian missile attacks across the Gulf region on Saturday, following the death of a Pakistani national from falling debris. The UAE warned that continued strikes could have grave consequences and emphasized the threat to regional stability. The Ministry of Defense confirmed that the fatality resulted from debris from an intercepted missile, highlighting the risks to civilian populations as missile exchanges extend beyond traditional conflict zones.
The Southern Theater Command of the People's Liberation Army conducts combat readiness patrols in the territorial waters and airspace around Huangyan Island, China.
The Southern Theater Command of the People's Liberation Army conducted combat readiness patrols around Scarborough Shoal on February 28. These patrols are part of ongoing efforts to assert China's sovereignty and respond to provocations in the region, ensuring national security and stability in the South China Sea.
China Coast Guard Law Enforcement Patrol in the Territorial Waters and Surrounding Areas of Huangyan Island
The China Coast Guard conducted law enforcement patrols in the waters around Huangyan Island on February 28. This operation is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen control over the area and assert territorial sovereignty, addressing illegal vessels in accordance with laws and regulations.
A Historic Turning Point in Japan-South Korea Defense Cooperation: Resumption of Joint Exercises After 9 Years and New Developments in Advanced Technology Cooperation
Japan and South Korea agreed to resume joint maritime search and rescue training on January 30, 2026, in Yokosuka, marking a significant shift in defense cooperation after a 9-year hiatus. The agreement includes collaboration on advanced defense technologies such as AI and unmanned systems, reflecting a response to regional security challenges posed by North Korea and China. Both nations' defense ministers emphasized the importance of ongoing communication and cooperation to address mutual security concerns.
Tanaka TakashiSat Feb 28 2026Loading...
Strong vs. Strong → Strong Collaboration: Multi-Unit "Aggregation" Training in the Eastern Theater Command
The Eastern Theater Command Air Force conducted joint military exercises in Eastern China, involving multiple aircraft and ground units. Red and Blue forces engaged in simulated combat, with Red forces employing advanced tactics such as electronic warfare and low-altitude penetration. Ground units established a layered air defense system, enhancing their joint operational capabilities.
The United States, Japan, and the Philippines Conduct the 15th Multinational Maritime Cooperation Activity in the Northern Waters of Batanes, with Chinese Vessels Tracking the Entire Journey
The Philippines, Japan, and the U.S. conducted the 15th Multinational Maritime Cooperation Activity (MMCA) from February 20-26, 2026, in the West Philippine Sea, extending to the northern waters of the Batanes Islands. Chinese naval vessels tracked the participating ships, raising tensions in the area. The exercise included live-fire drills and various maritime operations, demonstrating enhanced cooperation among the three nations.
Tanaka TakashiSat Feb 28 2026Loading...
How A Russian Pilot Defected with A Mach 2.83 MiG-25 ‘Foxbat’ Fighter
Viktor Belenko defected from the Soviet Air Force, flying a MiG-25 Foxbat to Hakodate, Japan, on September 9, 1976. His successful defection provided Western intelligence with critical insights into the aircraft's capabilities and limitations. The event marked a significant moment in Cold War aviation history, dispelling myths surrounding the MiG-25's performance.
Sorry, F-22 and F-35: China’s J-20 Mighty Dragon Stealth Fighter Is Getting Pumped Out Of Factories In Big Numbers
China is rapidly increasing the production of the Chengdu J-20 stealth fighter, with over 300 aircraft currently in service and projections of up to 1,000 by the 2030s. The newly unveiled J-20S variant introduces a second crew member for enhanced electronic warfare and drone coordination. This development positions the J-20 as a significant threat to U.S. air superiority, particularly in maritime strike operations.
