Analysis & Reports

Russia's military spending reached a record 44% of its federal budget in the first half of 2026, totaling 10.7 trillion rubles ($125 billion). This marks a 30% increase from the previous year, largely driven by classified spending. The military's share of the budget has risen significantly since the invasion of Ukraine, with classified expenditures making up a substantial portion of military needs. Oil and gas revenue has declined, further straining the budget.

The Russian army is depriving contract soldiers of bonuses for legal violations, tightening recruitment policies for 2026. This change aims to control soldier behavior outside combat and reflects a shift in military recruitment strategy. The new policy is intended to reduce budgetary risks and combat issues like desertion and misconduct. The Russian military continues to face challenges in maintaining troop quality amid ongoing conflict.

Dmitri VolkovTue Sep 08 2026Loading...

U.S. and European defense analysts express concerns over potential Russian attacks on NATO, particularly targeting Poland and the Baltic states. The report highlights the possibility of cyber-attacks and missile strikes, as well as the implications of a nuclear conflict. Analysts suggest that Russia may miscalculate its military strength and that the international community should consider the dismantlement of Russia post-conflict.

The August 1st Air Demonstration Team of the Chinese Air Force has participated in numerous international airshows from 2013 to 2026, including events in Moscow, Malaysia, and the UAE. The team showcased advanced aircraft like the Y-20 and J-10C, demonstrating China's growing military capabilities and fostering international military relations. This participation reflects China's strategic intent to enhance its global military presence and share technological advancements.

Four Soviet-built aircraft carriers have had varied fates: one is a luxury hotel in Tianjin, another serves as a theme park in Shenzhen, one is operational in the Indian Navy as INS Vikramaditya, and the last is being scrapped. The Admiral Kuznetsov remains with Russia but is plagued by mechanical issues and is likely to be scrapped. The collapse of the USSR has left the Russian Navy struggling to maintain its naval capabilities.

HMS Queen Elizabeth (R08) of the British Royal Navy deployed from Portsmouth on September 5, 2023, carrying over 800 sailors. This marks its first extended sea period as NATO's afloat command platform for the Allied Reaction Force. The deployment aims to enhance NATO's crisis response capabilities and includes training alongside allied forces over the next three months.

Chinese President Xi Jinping attended the 2026 Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit in Kyrgyzstan, where he emphasized the importance of strengthening defense and security cooperation among member states. The SCO has organized various military exercises and professional exchanges to enhance collaboration. The organization aims to maintain regional stability and address security challenges, with China committed to deepening military ties with other SCO nations.

Ukrainian long-range drones are impacting Russian airspace and logistics in September 2026, creating uncertainty in the rear areas of Russia. President Zelensky has advised airlines to evaluate risks for flights over Russia, while the Russian military is reallocating air defense resources in response to these threats. This shift indicates that the traditional concept of strategic depth for Russia is becoming increasingly costly and uncertain.

Dmitri VolkovWed Sep 02 2026Loading...

On September 1, 2023, the Russian Foreign Ministry condemned the planned deployment of the U.S. Aegis missile system in Japan, labeling it as 'absolutely unacceptable.' Russia expressed concerns over joint military exercises involving Japan, the U.S., and Australia scheduled for September 8-24, warning that such actions threaten its security. The ministry indicated that Russia would take countermeasures to protect its defense interests.

Uzbekistan received its first batch of six J-10CE fighter jets from China on August 30, 2026, marking a significant shift in its military procurement strategy. The total order includes 24 aircraft valued at approximately $1 billion. This move indicates Uzbekistan's transition from reliance on Russian military equipment to Chinese systems, reflecting a broader change in regional defense dynamics.

Li MinghuiMon Aug 31 2026Loading...

U.S. intelligence reports indicate that Russia perceives a significant weakening of U.S. military capabilities due to the depletion of air defense missiles from the Iran war. This perception may embolden Putin to take more aggressive actions in Europe. The 69th Air Defense Artillery Brigade conducted live fire training with Patriot missiles, highlighting ongoing U.S. military readiness efforts despite concerns over stock levels.

Uzbekistan confirmed the delivery of six Chinese-made J-10CE fighter jets, which were showcased during the country's 35th independence anniversary celebrations. The aircraft are stationed at Karshi-Khanabad airbase, marking a significant upgrade from Uzbekistan's reliance on Soviet-era aircraft. This acquisition positions Uzbekistan as the second foreign operator of the J-10CE, following Pakistan.

The Foxtrot-class submarines, built from 1957 to 1983, served in multiple navies and played a significant role during the Cold War, notably during the Cuban Missile Crisis when B-59 nearly launched a nuclear torpedo. As of 2026, only seven of the original seventy-five submarines remain, primarily as museum exhibits.

European intelligence agencies reported no evidence of Russia planning an attack on NATO member states as of the 27th. U.S. CIA Director John Ratcliffe visited Russia to warn against such actions, particularly concerning the Baltic states. Russian officials, including President Trump's spokesperson, dismissed claims of military preparations against Europe.

Russia is experiencing a financial crisis due to its war spending, with the federal treasury balance falling to minus 5.5 trillion rubles. Austerity measures have been implemented, cutting non-military spending by 35% and federal staffing by 15%. The federal deficit for January through April reached 5.8-5.9 trillion rubles, prompting warnings from Finance Minister Anton Siluanov about insufficient funds for scheduled payments.

The first road bridge between North Korea and Russia is nearing completion and is expected to open in September 2026. This infrastructure will enhance logistics and trade routes, allowing for easier transport of goods, including military supplies. The construction progress indicates a significant strategic partnership between the two nations, with implications for regional security dynamics.

Tanaka TakashiThu Aug 27 2026Loading...

The U.S. Air Force's F-22 Raptor has a combat radius of 410 miles, raising concerns about its effectiveness against long-range threats from China and Russia. The DF-41 missile from China can strike targets up to 9,320.5 miles away, while Russia's Sukhoi S-70 Okhotnik-B drone has a range of 3,728 miles. The report highlights the importance of improving airbase defenses to protect against these advanced threats.

The U.S. Air Force's F-22 Raptor, costing $350 million per plane, is compared against China's J-20 and Russia's Su-57 in terms of capabilities and production numbers. The F-22 excels in frontal stealth and maneuverability, while the J-20 offers superior speed and payload. Current production numbers show only 187 F-22s, with J-20s projected to reach 300, while Su-57 production remains low at 21-30 units.

The first road bridge linking North Korea and Russia is nearing completion at Tumangang, symbolizing enhanced military cooperation. While the North Korean side is fully constructed, work on the Russian side continues. This development follows North Korea's military support for Russia in the Ukraine conflict and reflects a strategic partnership solidified in 2024.

Ousted Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov warned that Ukraine is gradually losing the war against Russia and needs urgent strategic changes. He highlighted the lack of innovation and a cohesive military plan, while Russia continues to launch ballistic missile attacks. Fedorov also called for wartime elections, which has sparked controversy, and emphasized the importance of developing advanced military technologies to improve Ukraine's defense capabilities.