Analysis & Reports

The United States Air Force briefly revived the SR-71 Blackbird program in 1995, investing $100 million to restore two aircraft, but discontinued it by 1998 due to high operational costs. The fleet of 12 aircraft had an annual operating cost of approximately $260 million, making it unsustainable in a post-Cold War budget environment. The SR-71 was known for its high-speed reconnaissance capabilities, flying at over 2,000 miles per hour and altitudes above 80,000 feet.

The Eastern Theater Command Air Force conducted day and night flight training exercises to enhance all-weather combat capabilities. Multiple fighter jets participated in simulated combat scenarios, including night operations. Logistical support was efficiently provided for refueling and equipment checks, ensuring readiness for further missions. The training successfully validated and optimized various tactical methods.

The U.S. Air Force added $826 million to its missile contract with Lockheed Martin, raising the total to $10.48 billion for the production of JASSM and LRASM missiles. This modification was issued by the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center at Eglin Air Force Base on June 27, 2026, with completion expected by July 31, 2030. The contract supports ongoing production and includes deliveries to allied nations under Foreign Military Sales agreements.

Japan's Onomichi Shipbuilding Company will begin mass production of unmanned surface vessels intended for military logistics and disaster relief. The vessels are designed to operate in shallow waters and will utilize advanced sensors and AI for navigation. The production aims to establish a system capable of producing 30 to 50 vessels by 2028, aligning with Japan's strategic defense initiatives.

Chinese and Laotian medical teams conducted humanitarian medical rescue training using unmanned intelligent devices on September 9. The exercise involved drones, robotic dogs, and unmanned vehicles for search and rescue operations, marking a significant advancement in military medical support capabilities. The training emphasized the integration of unmanned equipment to improve efficiency in casualty evacuation and logistics.

The Chinese military is evaluating humanoid robots for combat and military support, with over 100 procurement records identified as of September 7, 2026. These robots are intended for tasks such as reconnaissance and logistics, although large-scale deployment has not yet occurred. The focus is on integrating these systems into existing military frameworks rather than immediate combat roles.

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China's navy has expanded to 350 ships, surpassing the US's 293. By 2030, China plans to increase its fleet to 435 ships, while the US aims to add 58 ships by 2031. The US Navy struggles with maintaining fleet readiness, with projections showing a readiness rate of only 68% by 2025. High costs and outdated regulations hinder US shipbuilding efforts.

Chinese and Lao medical teams conducted a joint humanitarian medical rescue exercise in Vientiane yesterday, named 'Peace Train-2026'. They set up medical tents and sanitation facilities within half a day, demonstrating various medical procedures and the use of unmanned equipment, including drones and robotic dogs, for casualty search and transport.

The 'Peace Train-2026' joint humanitarian medical rescue exercise began on September 7, 2026, in Vientiane, Laos, involving 150 personnel from the Chinese Armed Forces. The exercise focuses on responding to typhoon disasters, featuring innovative command and rescue systems. It aims to improve the joint medical rescue capabilities of the Chinese and Lao armed forces, utilizing advanced medical and unmanned equipment.

Taiwan is upgrading its F-16 fleet and constructing 26 hardened aircraft shelters to enhance its military readiness against potential threats from the People's Liberation Army. Recent reports indicate that F-16Vs turned back to Hawaii shortly after departure, highlighting operational challenges. The Taiwan Air Force is focused on improving logistics and infrastructure to ensure the fleet can effectively respond to threats.

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The 'Peace Train-2026' joint humanitarian medical rescue exercise commenced in Vientiane on September 7, 2026, involving over 700 personnel from the Lao People's Army and Chinese Armed Forces. The exercise aims to enhance joint rescue capabilities and disaster response, featuring a three-level command and four-level rescue system. Activities will include medical services and cultural exchanges throughout the event.

The U.S. military and defense contractors control or can access 110 military facilities in Australia, significantly exceeding half of the total number of Australian military facilities. This presence includes 17 directly controlled by the U.S. and 75 managed by Australia, with implications for intelligence collection and logistics. Public trust in the U.S. is waning, with only 31% of Australians believing in its responsible global actions.

Zhanjiang has implemented supportive policies for military families, ensuring their children can access education smoothly. The Southern Theater Navy collaborates with local authorities to facilitate employment for military spouses and streamline school enrollment for their children. Recent initiatives have led to improved coordination between military units and educational institutions, enhancing the overall welfare of military families in the region.

China is ramping up production of J-20 and J-35A stealth fighters, with the Chengdu plant capable of producing 100 J-20s annually. The total Chinese fighter production capacity is estimated at 300 to 400 aircraft per year, aiming for a fleet of 1000 fifth-generation fighters by 2030. The People's Liberation Army Air Force is expanding its capabilities significantly, while the U.S. has only 184 F-22s remaining in inventory.

USS Abraham Lincoln docked in Thailand on September 2, 2023, allowing approximately 5,000 crew members to rest after nearly 9 months at sea. The U.S. Navy faces significant logistical challenges in the Middle East, including the destruction of a key supply base and the need for extensive resupply operations over long distances. Currently, two aircraft carriers and twelve destroyers are involved in operations in the region.

The U.S. Air Force increased its order of F-15EX Eagle II fighters to 267, citing production delays and rising costs. The first F-15EX arrived at Kadena Air Base in Okinawa, Japan, on August 28, 2023, but further deliveries are delayed, complicating the replacement of older F-15C/D aircraft. The program faces significant logistical challenges and concerns about the aircraft's relevance in modern warfare.

Taiwan increased its defense budget to NT$1 trillion for 2026, adding NT$145.7 billion to enhance military capabilities. The budget focuses on acquiring more drones and munitions, but experts warn it may not significantly improve Taiwan's wartime logistics or combat readiness against larger Chinese forces. Beijing perceives this budget increase as inadequate for Taiwan's defense needs in a potential conflict.

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USS Abraham Lincoln completed a 286-day deployment and docked in Thailand on September 2, 2018, after enduring 264 days without a port call. The ship's condition showed significant rust and deterioration, reflecting the strain on the crew, who faced declining morale and mental health issues during the extended deployment. The Navy is investigating a recent suicide attempt among the crew, highlighting the challenges faced during operations in the region.

The People's Liberation Army and Armed Police conducted rescue operations in Jilong County, Tibet, following a landslide disaster on September 3, 2023. A total of 726 personnel were deployed, along with 24 engineering machines and 60 specialized equipment. The forces utilized over 20 helicopters and drones to assist in search and rescue, providing medical services to over 900 individuals.

Iran struck the U.S. Navy's logistics hub in Bahrain on February 28, 2023, forcing the Navy to resupply at sea every five to six days. Currently, about 20 ships and 20,000 personnel are deployed in the Middle East, with supply ships traveling 2,200 miles to Diego Garcia for essential supplies. This situation presents significant logistical challenges for the Navy's operations in the region.