Analysis & Reports

The Southern Theater Command Navy conducted multi-subject maritime training exercises in the South China Sea with three ships: Huading Mountain, Luoxiao Mountain, and Daiyun Mountain. The training involved ship maneuvering, damage control, and responses to simulated enemy aircraft. Personnel practiced damage control and medical evacuation procedures, enhancing the fleet's combat readiness and coordination capabilities during both day and night operations.

Pilots from the Naval Aviation Unit of the Liaoning Carrier successfully took off during distant sea training to drive away an external aircraft that approached despite warnings. A number of young pilots also obtained night landing qualifications on the carrier.

The Shenyang Joint Logistics Support Center conducted a special exercise for ammunition delivery using multiple types of unmanned equipment. The exercise involved coordinated operations of drones for aerial delivery and unmanned ground vehicles for ground transport, establishing a comprehensive logistics support system. This recent operation aimed to enhance the efficiency of ammunition delivery under challenging conditions.

The Dalian Maritime Safety Administration issued a navigation warning for military operations in the Bohai Strait and northern Yellow Sea from April 27 at 10:00 to May 10 at 16:00, prohibiting access to these areas.

Jiang Tao, a 90s-born instructor in the People's Armed Police Force, was awarded the China Youth May Fourth Medal on April 27, 2026, as the only individual in the military to receive this honor. He has a distinguished record of service, including multiple commendations and international teaching assignments. Jiang emphasizes the values of loyalty and responsibility in his military career.

Japan held its first expert meeting in Tokyo on April 27, 2023, to discuss revisions to the 'Three Security Documents' and gather recommendations for increasing defense spending. The government aims to raise its defense budget to approximately 43 trillion yen from 2023 to 2027, with Prime Minister Kishi Nobuo stressing the importance of enhancing defense capabilities. Concerns have emerged regarding potential modifications to Japan's non-nuclear principles.

The U.S. government faces pressure to halt AI chip exports to China following warnings about China's efforts to replicate American AI systems. Americans for Responsible Innovation urged the administration to restrict access to advanced chips like Nvidia's H200, citing national security risks. The White House has accused China of conducting industrial-scale campaigns to distill U.S. AI technologies, raising concerns about the implications for AI competition.

Japan's Ministry of Defense has announced the deployment of Type 25 land-based anti-ship missiles and Type 25 high-speed glide missiles, marking a significant shift in its defense policy. This move is part of a broader plan to enhance Japan's offensive capabilities, with more advanced long-range weapons expected by 2032. The development includes hypersonic cruise missiles, indicating a strategic shift away from Japan's traditional self-defense posture.

USS New Jersey provided naval gunfire support off the coast of Vietnam from September 1968 to April 1969, firing 5,866 rounds of 16-inch shells and 14,891 rounds of 5-inch ammunition. The battleship played a crucial role in supporting ground troops during the conflict, destroying over 180 structures and 50 bunkers. It was the only battleship deployed in Vietnam, showcasing its artillery capabilities during a time of intense ground combat.

Japan's Soryu-class submarines, operated by the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Forces, are designed for stealth and extended underwater operations, countering threats from China and North Korea. These submarines utilize advanced AIP technology and lithium-ion batteries, enhancing their operational capabilities. They are heavily armed and play a critical role in Japan's maritime strategy, particularly in the East and South China Seas.

In March 1952, the USS Wisconsin bombarded entrenched North Korean positions off the coast of Songin, effectively cutting off their supply lines. The North Koreans attempted to retaliate with a 152 mm artillery piece, hitting the battleship but causing no significant damage. The USS Wisconsin responded by targeting the North Korean artillery position, resulting in its destruction and wounding three sailors aboard the battleship.

The U.S. military strategy aims to disrupt China's fuel supply to weaken the People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) in the event of conflict. China relies on oil imports for 70% of its needs, primarily transported by sea, making it vulnerable to U.S. actions. The PLAN operates over 370 ships and has limited replenishment capabilities, with only 11 modern oilers. Targeting China's fuel infrastructure could significantly impact its military operations and economic stability.

The People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) has officially named the Shenyang J-35 stealth fighter aircraft carrier variant 'Blue Shark', marking its transition to initial operational integration. This aircraft is intended to replace the J-15 and enhance the PLAN's carrier-based air superiority. The J-35 has been in development since 2012 and is equipped to carry advanced missiles, indicating a significant advancement in China's naval aviation capabilities.

Australia has committed A$750 million for the manufacturing of 268 next-generation Bushmaster protected mobility vehicles. This investment aims to enhance the capabilities of the Australian Defence Force in protected mobility operations.

Global military spending reached a record high of nearly $2.9 trillion in 2025, driven by a 14% increase in Europe. The U.S. saw a 7.5% decline in military expenditure, while China and Ukraine reported significant increases in their defense budgets. NATO members collectively spent $1.581 trillion, accounting for 55% of global military spending, amid concerns over transparency and accounting practices.

Global military spending reached a record high of nearly $2.9 trillion in 2025, driven by significant increases in Europe and Asia. European military expenditure surged 14% to $864 billion, while U.S. spending declined by 7.5% to $954 billion due to a lack of new military assistance for Ukraine. China and Taiwan also reported substantial increases in their military budgets, reflecting ongoing regional tensions.

Jiang Tao, a 90s generation instructor of the People's Armed Police Force, was awarded the China Youth May Fourth Medal on April 27, 2026, making him the only recipient in the military. He has received multiple honors for his service and has represented the Chinese military internationally, emphasizing loyalty and responsibility as core values of his military career.

On April 27, 2016, pilot Zhang Chao sacrificed himself during a training exercise in Bohai Bay to save his aircraft. Ten years later, the Chinese Navy has advanced to a 'three aircraft carrier era', with naval aviation units successfully transitioning to carrier-based operations. The unit has significantly increased its number of qualified pilots and operational readiness, emphasizing a commitment to heroism and excellence in military aviation.

The Chinese Maritime Safety Administration issued a navigation warning for the Bohai Sea, indicating that military operations will take place from April 27 at 00:00 to April 28 at 24:00, prohibiting access to certain areas.

Thales Australia will deliver 268 additional next generation Bushmaster Protected Mobility Vehicles (PMVs) to the Australian armed forces, supported by a AU$750 million investment from the government. Production will commence in 2027 at the Bendigo facility, enhancing the Australian Army's capabilities with improved protection and mobility features.