Analysis & Reports
AI-assisted analysis of military-related information from public sources
New images show China’s largest stealth drone in testing
New satellite images reveal that China's largest stealth drone, the WZ-X, is undergoing testing at Malan Air Base in the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. The drone, identified in imagery from 2024 to 2026, features a wingspan of approximately 52 meters and is part of a broader program that includes the GJ-X stealth combat drone. Analysts note that Malan Air Base serves as a key testing site for the Chinese Air Force's uncrewed aircraft.
Teaching - 10 Live Ammunition Combat Patrol Huangyan Island: The PLA Uses Trainer Aircraft to Calculate the Cost of South China Sea Confrontation
On September 2, the People's Liberation Army Air Force conducted a patrol near Huangyan Island using a 教-10 advanced trainer aircraft armed with live missiles, marking its first public deployment in such a role. The aircraft warned intruding Philippine planes, supported by 歼-16 fighters and other naval assets, demonstrating a strategic and cost-effective military operation.
Li MinghuiSat Sep 05 2026Loading...Teaching - 10 Live Ammunition Combat Patrol Huangyan Island: The PLA Uses Trainer Aircraft to Calculate the Cost of South China Sea Confrontation
On September 2, the People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) conducted patrols over Huangyan Island using a 教-10 advanced trainer aircraft armed with live 霹雳-5 missiles. The aircraft warned intruding Philippine planes to vacate the area, marking the first public use of the 教-10 in such operations. This approach is seen as a cost-effective tactic, supported by a range of military assets including 歼-16 fighter jets and naval vessels.
Li MinghuiSat Sep 05 2026Loading...
2026 COSCO Cargo Ship Involved in Covert Intelligence Collection Controversy: Risks of China's Maritime Intelligence Network Extending to Merchant Vessels Surface
U.S. officials alleged that COSCO vessels used covert equipment to collect military communications intelligence near target nations' coasts on September 1, 2026. In response, China's embassy denied these allegations, calling them baseless. The report highlights concerns about the integration of commercial shipping into military intelligence operations, suggesting a potential shift in how intelligence is gathered at sea.
Li MinghuiFri Sep 04 2026Loading...
Tactical Coordination! Scouts Forge Their Skills Day and Night
The reconnaissance unit of the Xinjiang Military District conducted tactical training exercises in a realistic battlefield environment during early autumn. The training involved tactical infiltration, reconnaissance, and responses to simulated chemical attacks, enhancing soldiers' operational capabilities. Night exercises focused on camouflage and low-light shooting skills, further preparing the unit for diverse operational tasks.
High Energy Sword! This Time the Artillery Live Fire is "Worth Watching"
The 81st Group Army conducted a live-fire artillery exercise in Northern China during early autumn, focusing on real combat scenarios. The exercise involved rapid deployment, coordinated strikes, and real-time reconnaissance using drones, effectively testing the unit's capabilities in complex environments. An integrated command information system facilitated data sharing and operational coordination.
Mystery military vehicle spotted in Japan sparks online debate
A mysterious tracked military vehicle was spotted in Japan late last week, sparking online speculation among military enthusiasts. Analysts suggest it may be a modification of the Type 89 infantry fighting vehicle, potentially designed for loitering-type UAV countermeasures. However, no official confirmation has been provided by Japan's Ministry of Defense regarding its identity or purpose.
Regular Patrols in the Huangyan Island Waters: What Did the Chinese Coast Guard Fleet Practice?
The China Coast Guard conducted routine law enforcement patrols near Scarborough Shoal, utilizing multiple vessels including Wanshan, Dahao, and Haiao. The operations included interception exercises against foreign vessels and aerial reconnaissance using drones. Additionally, law enforcement checks were performed on local fishing boats, emphasizing the ongoing enforcement of maritime regulations in the region.
China’s Military Was Stunned by Desert Storm. It Has Spent 35 Years Learning to Do It.
In June 2026, the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) conducted a live-fire exercise involving the 84th Army Aviation Brigade, targeting mockups of US military equipment in Taiwan. The exercise showcased the integration of drones, helicopters, and precision weapons, emphasizing the PLA's preparation for potential conflict with Taiwan. This training reflects China's efforts to modernize its military capabilities since the Gulf War.
The Same Mach 3 Speed and 80,000 Feet Engineering That Made the SR-71 Blackbird Untouchable Is What Nearly Killed Its Crew
In 1968, the SR-71 Blackbird crew experienced a dual engine flameout during a reconnaissance mission over North Vietnam. The crew attempted to restart the engines while descending to lower altitudes, successfully relighting them and landing safely at Kadena Air Base. This incident underscores the aircraft's engineering vulnerabilities despite its high-speed and high-altitude capabilities.
The Repeated Flights of China's Y-9 and TB-001 Indicate the Endurance Burden of Southwest Air Defense
Chinese Air Force conducted repeated flights of Y-9 electronic reconnaissance aircraft and TB-001 drones around Mannen Island and Okinawa from August 21, 2023. These operations are designed to test the response times of Japanese air defenses and exert pressure on their operational capabilities. The Y-9 collects electronic intelligence while the TB-001 maintains a low-cost, persistent presence in the air.
Tanaka TakashiFri Aug 28 2026Loading...
US military bought commercial satellite images of alleged narco airstrips, Chinese naval fleet
The U.S. military purchased satellite images to identify Chinese aircraft carrier positions and Ecuadorian airstrips used for drug trafficking. The National Reconnaissance Office acquired commercial imagery to monitor naval assets and assist Ecuador in addressing narcotrafficking. Despite spending nearly $77 million on commercial space services, the Space Force faces challenges in fully utilizing these resources due to communication issues and perceived restrictions.
The Philippines' 2027 Drone Push Won't Close the South China Sea Gap
The Philippines plans to enhance its military capabilities by acquiring more drones and guided-missile corvettes as part of its 2027 defense budget. The proposed budget allocates 50 billion pesos for modernization, while 142.95 billion pesos is designated for military pensions, limiting available funds. The Armed Forces of the Philippines aims to improve surveillance and operational capabilities in response to threats in the South China Sea, with a focus on unmanned systems for maritime awareness.
Marcus ChenThu Aug 27 2026Loading...The Entry of Russian Military Aircraft into KADIZ Reflects the Security Burden on Japan, South Korea, and the United States
On the afternoon of the 26th, multiple Russian military aircraft temporarily entered South Korea's Air Defense Identification Zone (KADIZ), prompting the South Korean Air Force to scramble fighter jets. This incident underscores the ongoing pressure on South Korean and allied forces, as they must continuously monitor and respond to such incursions despite the lack of a legal violation. Political dynamics involving the U.S. and North Korea further complicate the security situation in the region.
Tanaka TakashiWed Aug 26 2026Loading...
China's 10,000-Foot Antelope Reef Runway Will Lock Down the Paracels
China has completed the first phase of reclamation at Antelope Reef, constructing a 10,000-foot runway to enhance military operations in the South China Sea. This development allows for increased presence of coast guard and military assets, improving logistics and operational capabilities in the region. The infrastructure supports various aircraft and strengthens China's strategic position near Vietnam.
Marcus ChenSun Aug 23 2026Loading...
Contractor Surveillance Planes Won't Close Taiwan's Gray-Zone Blind Spot
Chinese maritime militia organized approximately 2,000 boats in a blockade formation northeast of Taiwan on Christmas Day last year. Researchers proposed a contractor-operated ISR fleet to enhance Taiwan's surveillance capabilities, as current systems struggle with response times. The report highlights the increasing number of Chinese-flagged vessels exhibiting state-directed behavior patterns, indicating a structured probing campaign against Taiwan's maritime defenses.
Marcus ChenFri Aug 21 2026Loading...A US P-8A Aircraft Transits the Taiwan Strait, Sources Say PLA Monitored the Entire Process
A U.S. Navy P-8A Poseidon patrol aircraft transited the Taiwan Strait on August 21, with the People's Liberation Army monitoring its movements throughout the flight. The PLA reported that the situation was fully under control during the incident.
Watch the "Flying Shark" Skim the Sea, Practice Offense and Defense Together
Naval Aviation University conducted low-altitude flight training exercises in the Bohai Sea, involving multiple fighter aircraft. The exercises included tactical maneuvers, reconnaissance, and simulated engagements with enemy forces. Personnel performed detailed maintenance on the aircraft and analyzed performance to enhance future training effectiveness.
The successful launch of H3 demonstrates the integration of Japan-U.S. alliance in space surveillance with the U.S. Space Force sensor on Quasi-Zenith Satellite No. 7.
The QZS-7 satellite, equipped with a U.S. Space Force sensor, was successfully launched from Tanegashima Space Center on August 10. This launch marks the second and final phase of the QZSS-HP program aimed at enhancing U.S.-Japan space cooperation for monitoring the Indo-Pacific region. The integration of U.S. sensors into Japan's satellite system signifies a strategic shift in space surveillance capabilities amid growing concerns over China's advancements in anti-satellite weapons.
S.WTue Aug 18 2026Loading...Japan launches second US military payload to monitor space above Indo-Pacific
Japan launched the Quasi-Zenith Satellite-7 on August 10, 2025, carrying the second US Space Force orbital neighborhood watch sensor. This launch, part of a bilateral effort with the US, aims to enhance space monitoring capabilities over the Indo-Pacific region. The satellite was successfully deployed from Tanegashima Space Center and will contribute data to the US Space Surveillance Network.
