Analysis & Reports
AI-assisted analysis of military-related information from public sources
China Wants Nine Aircraft Carriers. Getting from Dreams to Taking on the US Navy Is Another Story
China aims to expand its aircraft carrier fleet to nine by 2035, with three currently in commission and one under construction in Dalian. The People's Liberation Army Navy is increasing its naval operations in the Indo-Pacific, evidenced by five carrier deployments in 2025. The expansion necessitates the development of air wings and logistical support to enhance operational capabilities.
The Air Force Wants to Retire 32 F-22 Raptor Fighters. Congress Says No, and Upgrading Them Would Cost $3.3 Billion.
The U.S. Air Force's F-22 Raptor fleet's mission-capable rate has dropped to 40.19 percent in fiscal 2024, prompting concerns over readiness. The Air Force has 184 F-22s, including 32 older Block 20 models that Congress has blocked from retirement. Upgrading these Block 20s is projected to cost at least $3.3 billion and take about 15 years, complicating the Air Force's operational capabilities amid increasing global demands.
Britain commits $11.3B to its next generation of submarines
Britain committed $11.3 billion to the Dreadnought-class submarine program on July 30, 2026, to replace its aging Vanguard-class submarines. The investment will support the construction of four new submarines, ensuring continuous nuclear deterrent patrols. The program is expected to create approximately 65,000 jobs by 2030, with significant economic impacts across the UK.
US Navy Aircraft Carrier USS Enterprise: A 40-Foot Gash, 24 Fuel Tanks Lost, $17 Million in Damage, and the Hazard Was Already on the Chart.
USS Enterprise struck Bishop Rock at Cortes Bank, California, on November 2, 1985, during a readiness exercise, resulting in a 40-foot gash and the temporary loss of 24 aviation-fuel tanks. The incident caused $17 million in damage and required six weeks of repairs. Despite the flooding, the carrier resumed training after a one-day inspection and returned to Alameda on November 23, 1985.
Air Force Recruitment Exam Candidates' Comprehensive Quality Steadily Improves, Will Use Y-20B for the First Time to Transport New Flight Students
The Air Force will transport newly admitted flight students to the Air Force Aviation University using multiple Yun-20B aircraft on July 31 and August 1, 2026. This operation marks the first use of the Yun-20B for this purpose, reflecting improvements in the recruitment process and the increasing quality of candidates. Students will be transported from six boarding points across China, with their families also invited to join the flight.
Taiwan RIMPAC 2026 Invite Cannot Fix the $1 Billion Readiness Gap
The U.S. Senate passed a bill encouraging Taiwan's navy to participate in RIMPAC 2026 and authorized $1 billion for the Taiwan Security Cooperation Initiative. This initiative aims to enhance Taiwan's military readiness amid ongoing pressures from China. RIMPAC, involving 31 countries and significant military assets, is seen as a critical opportunity for Taiwan to improve its operational capabilities. However, the report highlights that mere participation is insufficient without substantial military utility and readiness improvements.
Marcus ChenThu Jul 30 2026Loading...
China’s J-20 Stealth Fighter Spent Years With Russian Engine Nozzles That Made It Easier to Detect From Behind
China's People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) has transitioned its J-20 stealth fighter from Russian AL-31 engines to domestic WS-10 engines, enhancing its operational capabilities. The WS-15 engine is also in testing, promising further improvements. This shift allows for increased production and operational flexibility across all five Chinese theater commands, reducing reliance on foreign technology.
Australia is renting private boats to help guard its coast
Australia is utilizing four FLEX FIGHTER armored security vessels operated by Penguin International Limited to enhance its maritime border protection efforts. This arrangement, part of a Public-Private Partnership, addresses the Australian Border Force's operational challenges, including maintenance backlogs and staffing shortages. The vessels are Australian-flagged and crewed, providing immediate support while the government builds new patrol boats.
The U.S. and Japan Simulate a Major Nankai Trough Earthquake and Verify Alliance Rear Support with JXR26
U.S. and Japanese forces conducted the JXR26 joint exercise from July 20 to 24, 2026, simulating a response to a major earthquake and tsunami in the Kinki region. The exercise emphasized humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, with U.S. forces supporting Japan's command. Key areas of focus included medical support, logistics, and effective communication under crisis conditions.
Tanaka TakashiThu Jul 30 2026Loading...Leidos subsidiary selected to design Australian nuclear submarine dry dock
Leidos Gibbs and Cox was selected to design a dry dock for Australia's future nuclear-powered submarines in Melbourne. This capability is essential for the Royal Australian Navy to receive its first Virginia class submarine. The project is part of a broader $12 billion investment in the Henderson Defence Precinct, aimed at enhancing Australia's defense capabilities under the AUKUS partnership.
Type 075 Hubei Ship South China Sea Full Element Training: PLA Amphibious Assault Ship Transitioning from Platform Display to System Integration
The People's Liberation Army Navy conducted comprehensive training exercises with the 075-class amphibious assault ship Hubei in the South China Sea on July 23. The training focused on helicopter takeoffs and landings, hovercraft operations, and emergency response procedures. This marks a transition to multi-ship coordinated operations, enhancing the operational capabilities of the Chinese amphibious forces.
Li MinghuiWed Jul 29 2026Loading...The Strength Confirmed in Mutsu Bay During the Japan-U.S. Mine Warfare Training in 2026
The U.S. Navy and Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force conducted Mine Warfare Exercise 2JA 2026 in Mutsu Bay, Japan, from July 9 to July 24, 2026. This joint exercise focused on enhancing mine warfare capabilities and coordination between the two forces. The involvement of India suggests a multilateral approach to mine warfare and port protection in the region.
Tanaka TakashiWed Jul 29 2026Loading...
El Nino is a threat indicator. The military should treat it like one.
The U.S. military must prepare for the impacts of El Nino, which is expected to significantly affect weather patterns in the second half of 2026. This includes increased flooding risks in regions like Guam and the Southern U.S., necessitating operational adjustments and readiness drills. Commanders are advised to test continuity plans and ensure mission-essential functions can continue amid potential disruptions.
The US Navy Still Needs Nimitz-Class Nuclear Aircraft Carrier USS Carl Vinson After 44 Years
USS Carl Vinson, a 44-year-old Nimitz-class aircraft carrier, continues to operate from San Diego, maintaining readiness for military operations in the Indo-Pacific and Middle East. The carrier recently completed extensive maintenance and has participated in significant military engagements, including strikes against Houthi targets in Yemen. With a combat record spanning decades, Vinson remains a vital asset to U.S. naval operations.
2,120 Days: That’s How Long US Navy Nuclear Aircraft Carrier USS George Washington Was ‘Trapped’ in the Yard
USS George Washington underwent a lengthy overhaul at Newport News Shipbuilding, taking 2,120 days instead of the planned 48 months, due to various logistical challenges and hidden damages. The carrier returned to Navy control on May 25, 2023, after extensive modernization, including upgrades to its systems and equipment. It is set to resume operations in Yokosuka, Japan, as the only forward-deployed American aircraft carrier in the region.
The Navy Built 62 Los Angeles-Class Submarines. It Cannot Replace Them Fast Enough and Faces a Nuclear Sub Shortage
The U.S. Navy is experiencing a nuclear submarine shortage as 42 of the 62 Los Angeles-class submarines have retired by fiscal 2026, while Virginia-class replacements are not being delivered at the necessary rate. The Navy's goal is to maintain 66 attack submarines, but projections indicate a decline to 47 by 2030. Maintenance issues further exacerbate the shortage, with a significant portion of the fleet currently unavailable for operations.
FIA 2026 – Airbus Defence and Space flying high
Airbus Defence and Space reported a record intake of €1.3 billion in 2025 during the Farnborough Airshow in London. The company is advancing its drone and aircraft capabilities, including the A400M's use in firefighting in France and the development of the A330 MRTT+. Airbus is also acquiring Ultra Cyber to enhance its cybersecurity offerings and is working on new drone technologies like the Bird of Prey and UCCA solutions.
Speed of Disaster Relief and Joint Operations Command Tested by Japan-U.S. Self-Defense Forces at JXR 2026
The Japan Self-Defense Forces and U.S. Armed Forces commenced the Joint Exercise Rescue (JXR 2026) on July 21, 2026, focusing on disaster relief simulations. This exercise aims to evaluate the operational coordination and speed of decision-making between the two forces. It highlights logistical challenges and the importance of effective communication during emergencies, particularly in the context of regional security concerns.
Tanaka TakashiMon Jul 27 2026Loading...Australia announces an additional $3.2 billion for nuclear submarine construction.
Australia announced an additional $3.2 billion investment for the construction of nuclear submarines on July 24, 2023, as part of the AUKUS defense agreement with the U.S. and U.K. This investment aims to enhance Australia's military capabilities and ensure the timely delivery of submarines amid concerns over production rates. The funding will support the Osborne shipyard in South Australia.
Five Days of US Japan Philippine Drills Cannot Hold the South China Sea
The U.S., Japan, and the Philippines conducted maritime drills from July 21-25 in the Philippine Exclusive Economic Zone, involving various naval and air assets. During this period, Chinese Coast Guard vessels confronted Philippine ships using water cannons. The exercises demonstrated interoperability among the allies but highlighted logistical challenges in maintaining a continuous presence in the contested South China Sea.
Marcus ChenSun Jul 26 2026Loading...
