Analysis & Reports

Chinese military aircraft and naval vessels operated in the Taiwan Strait on September 19, 2026, with 20 aircraft and 11 ships detected. Taiwan reported a 52% decrease in Chinese aircraft activity in its air defense identification zone this year, while naval activity decreased by only 7%. Taiwan is increasing its defense budget to enhance unmanned systems and long-range missile capabilities, including the Ching Tien missile, which is now in mass production.

Li MinghuiMon Sep 21 2026Loading...

North Korea fired two short-range ballistic missiles towards the Sea of Japan on September 20, 2026. The launch followed a trilateral military exercise involving the U.S., Japan, and South Korea, and is interpreted as a test of their maritime alertness. No damage was reported, and the missiles did not land in Japanese territory or its exclusive economic zone.

Tanaka TakashiMon Sep 21 2026Loading...

The fifth prototype of the J-36 fighter jet has emerged in Chengdu, indicating progress in the development of China's sixth-generation aircraft. This prototype is part of a strategy to expedite testing and development cycles, focusing on long-range air superiority and reconnaissance capabilities. The J-36 is designed to accommodate larger radar and missiles, enhancing its operational effectiveness. The report highlights the importance of multiple prototypes in addressing engineering challenges and refining design features.

Li MinghuiMon Sep 21 2026Loading...

Japan's Ministry of Defense submitted a budget request for the 2027 fiscal year, proposing approximately 8.9 trillion yen, which may exceed 10 trillion yen. This marks a significant increase in defense spending, reflecting a shift towards offensive military capabilities, including long-range missiles and drones. The government aims to integrate advanced technologies into military operations, indicating a broader strategy of military expansion and modernization.

North Korea launched two ballistic missiles from its east coast on September 20, 2026, landing outside Japan's Exclusive Economic Zone. The launches, occurring three hours apart, highlight potential vulnerabilities in Japan's Aegis defense system and are seen as a practical test rather than a mere show of force. This event follows recent discussions between Japanese and U.S. defense officials regarding security cooperation.

Tanaka TakashiMon Sep 21 2026Loading...

The U.S., Japan, and Australia conducted the largest 'Orient Shield 2026' military exercise in Hokkaido, Japan, involving approximately 3700 personnel. This exercise featured the first joint air assault operation between U.S. and Japanese forces and the participation of the U.S. 'Typhoon' missile system. Experts indicate that this marks a significant shift towards offensive military cooperation, posing a threat to regional stability.

China is showcasing various prototypes of the J-36 sixth-generation stealth fighter in Chengdu, with significant design revisions noted since December 2024. The Chengdu Aircraft Corporation is rapidly advancing its capabilities, potentially outpacing American developments in sixth-generation warplanes. Recent imagery indicates that the J-36 is optimized for low observability and may serve as a long-range fighter-bomber.

The Chengdu J-10 fighter, developed by China, has evolved into a crucial military asset since its first flight in 1998. The latest variant, J-10C, features advanced technology, including AESA radar and PL-15 missiles, enhancing its combat effectiveness. The J-10 is now seen as comparable to the F-16 and has demonstrated superior performance in recent conflicts, marking a significant achievement in China's military modernization efforts.

Taiwan conducted its first joint military drill using Altius-600M drones on September 18, 2026, in Pingtung. The exercise focused on integrating drones into a kill chain alongside precision missiles and artillery. A Chinese drone monitored the event, highlighting the competitive military environment. Delays in US arms sales are impacting Taiwan's operational readiness, prompting a push for increased indigenous production.

Marcus ChenSun Sep 20 2026Loading...

Russia demands Japan withdraw the U.S. 'Tomahawk' missile system deployed in Japan, citing threats to national security. Despite multiple protests from Russia, Japan continues to maintain the deployment. Russian officials emphasize that any deployment of such weapons is unacceptable and poses a direct threat to Russia's security interests.

Anduril Industries reported that delays in U.S. arms sales to Taiwan are impacting its operations and the overall deterrence strategy against China. The company highlighted that political approval delays hinder the timely delivery of critical military equipment, such as the Altius-600M loitering munition. This situation raises concerns about Taiwan's defense capabilities in the face of increasing pressure from the People's Liberation Army.

Marcus ChenSat Sep 19 2026Loading...

Leonardo DRS is constructing the electric propulsion system for South Korea's KDDX destroyer, the first full-electric-drive surface warship for the Republic of Korea Navy. The program includes six destroyers, with the lead ship expected to be delivered by 2032. This advanced propulsion system will enhance the ship's capabilities, allowing for greater power allocation to sensors and weapons.

North Korea revealed new drone production lines during a factory tour by Kim Jong Un from September 16 to 18, 2023. The production includes a one-way attack drone resembling Israeli designs. Kim inspected various munitions industry enterprises, highlighting the country's push to expand its drone capabilities. The unveiling follows previous displays of drone prototypes and a mobile rocket launcher system.

Kim Jong Un inspected munitions factories in North Korea from September 16 to 18, 2023, focusing on the production of a mobile rocket launcher akin to the U.S. HIMARS system. He emphasized the need for increased output of missile and artillery systems to enhance military readiness. This visit indicates a shift from testing to production of advanced weaponry, including AI-guided missiles.

Japan Self-Defense Forces plans to introduce 52,000 unmanned systems from FY 2027 to FY 2031, including various types of drones and missiles. This shift aims to enhance operational capabilities while reducing reliance on manned platforms. The strategy focuses on long-range attacks and reconnaissance, particularly in response to Chinese naval activities. However, the success of this initiative hinges on effective communication and operational support.

Tanaka TakashiSat Sep 19 2026Loading...

Japan plans to introduce approximately 52,000 unmanned systems for long-range strikes and intelligence gathering from 2027 to 2031. The defense budget is expected to rise significantly, with over 9 trillion yen allocated for enhancing capabilities, including advanced drones and hypersonic missiles. This initiative raises concerns about escalating regional arms races.

A new 205-meter unmanned submarine mother ship has surfaced in Shanghai, enhancing the People's Liberation Army Navy's capabilities for deploying unmanned underwater vehicles. This ship can carry multiple large and small UUVs, indicating a significant advancement in underwater warfare and intelligence operations. The development reflects a strategic shift in the PLA's naval operations, moving towards integrated unmanned systems for extended missions.

Li MinghuiSat Sep 19 2026Loading...

North Korea conducted a joint firepower drill on September 12, 2026, launching multiple ballistic missiles from its eastern coast. The exercise involved a combination of missiles, drones, and artillery, aimed at testing the missile defense capabilities of Japan, the U.S., and South Korea. Kim Yo Jong issued a warning of a stronger response to U.S.-led military drills, indicating a potential shift in North Korea's military strategy.

Tanaka TakashiSat Sep 19 2026Loading...

Taiwan is conducting sea trials for its first domestically built submarine, the Hai Kun, which is expected to enter service in 2027. The Republic of China Navy plans to enhance its fleet from four to eight submarines with the Hai Kun-class, which features advanced capabilities including Harpoon missile launch systems. The program has faced delays, but it is crucial for Taiwan's undersea deterrence amid increasing pressure from China.

Taiwan conducted joint military drills on September 18, 2026, integrating attack drones and HIMARS to enhance its defense capabilities against potential Chinese aggression. The exercise aimed to demonstrate Taiwan's adaptation to modern warfare, although concerns remain about sustaining firepower in a prolonged conflict. The drills coincide with political tensions regarding US arms sales to Taiwan, highlighting the strategic implications of military preparedness in the region.

Marcus ChenFri Sep 18 2026Loading...