Analysis & Reports

AI-assisted analysis of military-related information from public sources

Video | Fang Haoming praises the Beijing Xiangshan Forum: Bringing together representatives from countries like Israel and Iran, something that cannot be seen in other countries.

Political-MilitaryInformation OperationsStrategic

The 13th Beijing Xiangshan Forum occurred from September 15 to 17, 2023, in Beijing, featuring over 2000 representatives from more than 100 countries, including Israel and Iran. This forum provided a unique platform for dialogue among nations, emphasizing the importance of international cooperation in addressing global issues. The presence of representatives from Russia and NATO further highlighted the forum's significance in fostering diplomatic discussions.

Source: Global TimesWed Sep 16 2026

Video | Beijing Xiangshan Forum Held, PLA Tri-Service Honor Guard Appears

Political-MilitaryStrategic

The People's Liberation Army Honor Guard appeared at the 13th Beijing Xiangshan Forum held at the Beijing International Conference Center from September 15 to 17, 2023. The forum's theme was 'Building Consensus for Stability and Promoting Security Governance.'

Source: Global TimesWed Sep 16 2026

Video | Beijing Xiangshan Forum Held, Representatives from Multiple Countries Arrive at Venue Before Opening Ceremony

Political-MilitaryStrategic

International representatives arrived in Beijing for the 13th Xiangshan Forum, held from September 15 to 17, 2023. The forum's theme focused on building consensus for stability and promoting security governance.

Source: Global TimesWed Sep 16 2026

UN Report: Large-Scale Wars Rapidly Climb in Global Risk Rankings

Strategic AssessmentPolitical-MilitaryStrategic

The United Nations report reveals a significant increase in the perceived risk of large-scale war, with 36% of surveyed individuals believing it could occur within a year. The report highlights a 16-place rise in the risk ranking since 2024, alongside growing concerns about financial crises and supply chain issues. In contrast, environmental risks have seen a decline in urgency among respondents.

Source: Global TimesWed Sep 16 2026

Video | Beijing Xiangshan Forum Held, Chinese Defense Minister Enters Venue

Political-MilitaryStrategic

Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun entered the venue for the 13th Beijing Xiangshan Forum held at the Beijing International Conference Center from September 15 to 17, 2023. The forum's theme focused on building consensus for stability and promoting security governance.

Source: Global TimesWed Sep 16 2026
Two Challenges Posed to the Chinese Navy by the Naval Build-up of Japan and South Korea in 2026

Two Challenges Posed to the Chinese Navy by the Naval Build-up of Japan and South Korea in 2026

Military OperationsPolitical-MilitaryOperational

Japan and South Korea are restructuring their naval forces to address the challenges posed by the expanding Chinese Navy. The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force is focusing on Mogami-class destroyers, while the Republic of Korea Navy is enhancing its capabilities with KSS-III submarines and large surface combatants. Both nations aim to improve their operational readiness and strategic coordination in the face of shared threats from China.

Tanaka TakashiTanaka TakashiWed Sep 16 2026
US Marine Stand-In Forces in the Pacific worry China, report details

US Marine Stand-In Forces in the Pacific worry China, report details

Strategic AssessmentMilitary OperationsWeapons & EquipmentStrategic

U.S. Marine Corps reorganizes for small-unit expeditionary warfare, raising concerns among Chinese naval officers about the effectiveness of Marine Stand-In Forces (SIF) on Pacific islands. Chinese military experts warn that SIFs could disrupt their naval operations and recommend proactive measures to counter these forces, including the development of undersea weapons and enhanced surveillance capabilities.

Source: Defense NewsTue Sep 15 2026
China finally acknowledges its massive missile silo fields

China finally acknowledges its massive missile silo fields

Weapons & EquipmentStrategic AssessmentOperational

Chinese state television acknowledged the existence of approximately 320 missile silos under construction in western China, marking the first semi-official recognition of the project. The People’s Liberation Army Rocket Force, under pressure from Beijing, aimed to enhance its second-strike nuclear capability. This acknowledgment follows years of speculation regarding China's nuclear policy and its response to U.S. missile defense initiatives.

Source: Defense BlogTue Sep 15 2026
North Korea

Donald Trump Needs to Bring Concessions if He Wants a Deal with North Korea

Political-MilitaryInformation OperationsStrategic

Donald Trump is contemplating a new summit with Kim Jong Un to negotiate concessions. The U.S. must consider significant offers, such as reducing military presence, to entice North Korea into a serious agreement. Previous negotiations failed due to inadequate concessions from the U.S., and North Korea's alignment with Russia complicates the situation. Without meaningful offers, further talks may lead to continued nuclear stalemate.

Source: 19FortyFiveTue Sep 15 2026

Dong Jun and Guests Attend Talks at the Beijing Xiangshan Forum

Political-MilitaryMilitary OperationsStrategic

Chinese Defense Minister General Dong Jun welcomed defense ministers from Myanmar, ASEAN, Brunei, Belarus, Azerbaijan, Kyrgyzstan, and Armenia at the 13th Beijing Xiangshan Forum on September 15. Discussions focused on military cooperation, regional stability, and the importance of partnerships in addressing global security challenges. The forum has been a key platform for international defense dialogue for 20 years, emphasizing peace and collaboration among nations.

Source: Global TimesTue Sep 15 2026
South Korea Nuclear Submarine Government Handout Photo

South Korea Has Put $74,400,000 Into an 8,000-Ton Nuclear Submarine Due in the Mid-2030s. It Has Never Operated a Naval Reactor.

Weapons & EquipmentPolitical-MilitaryOperational

South Korea is developing its own nuclear-powered submarines under the Chang Bogo N Project, with plans to launch the first vessel in the mid-2030s. The South Korean government has allocated $74.4 million for initial research and design, aiming to enhance its naval capabilities in response to North Korea's military advancements. The submarines will utilize low-enriched uranium and will not be equipped with nuclear weapons, focusing instead on monitoring North Korean threats and protecting trade routes in the Indo-Pacific.

Source: 19FortyFiveTue Sep 15 2026
China's National Defense Mobilization Law Takes Effect on October 1, PLA Gains Access to National Resources, Taiwan Strait Readiness Enters Institutional Phase

China's National Defense Mobilization Law Takes Effect on October 1, PLA Gains Access to National Resources, Taiwan Strait Readiness Enters Institutional Phase

Political-MilitaryLogisticsStrategic

The revised National Defense Mobilization Law in China will take effect on October 1, 2026, allowing the People's Liberation Army to mobilize civilian resources during crises. This law aims to enhance the PLA's logistical capabilities by integrating civilian assets, including personnel and infrastructure, into national defense efforts. The implications of this law have raised concerns among neighboring countries regarding regional security dynamics.

S.WS.WTue Sep 15 2026

Japanese Media: Over 80% of Criminal Cases Involving U.S. Forces in Japan Not Prosecuted

Political-MilitaryInformation OperationsStrategic

In 2025, over 80% of general criminal cases involving U.S. military personnel in Japan were not prosecuted, with only 21 out of 134 cases leading to prosecution. The majority of these crimes occurred in Okinawa Prefecture, highlighting the implications of the U.S.-Japan Status of Forces Agreement, which grants legal privileges to U.S. forces. This situation reflects longstanding issues regarding the accountability of U.S. military personnel in Japan.

Source: Reference NewsTue Sep 15 2026

Canada plans to deeply participate in the Japan-UK-Italy fighter jet project.

Political-MilitaryWeapons & EquipmentStrategic

Canada aims to deepen its involvement in the Japan-UK-Italy next-generation fighter jet project, seeking to become a formal member. On September 10, 2023, Canadian Ambassador Ian McKay stated that Canada will contribute its advanced technology in aircraft, radar, and satellite systems. This collaboration is part of a broader effort to strengthen defense cooperation among friendly nations in the Indo-Pacific region.

Source: Reference NewsTue Sep 15 2026

Beijing Xiangshan Forum Live Coverage: Military Representatives from Multiple Countries Arrive at the Venue

Political-MilitaryStrategic

Military representatives from nearly 100 countries and regions arrived at the Beijing Xiangshan Forum held from September 15 to 17, 2023. The event featured over 60 attendees at the ministerial and general officer level, showcasing broad regional representation and strong inclusivity.

Source: Global TimesTue Sep 15 2026
Constantly creating security anxiety to cover up the true intentions of military expansion, Japanese officials actually claim they want to build nuclear submarines again.

Constantly creating security anxiety to cover up the true intentions of military expansion, Japanese officials actually claim they want to build nuclear submarines again.

Political-MilitaryWeapons & EquipmentStrategic

Japanese Defense Minister Koizumi Shinjiro indicated that Japan may pursue the development of nuclear-powered submarines amid discussions to revise its security policies. This statement reflects Japan's concerns over China's military capabilities and has sparked warnings from military experts about the potential disruption to regional stability. The call to reconsider Japan's non-nuclear principles is gaining traction domestically, raising alarms about the implications for regional security.

Source: Global TimesMon Sep 14 2026
Vanguard-class Submarine. Image Credit: Creative Commons.

Royal Navy Nuclear Missile Submarine HMS Vanguard Spent About 89 Months in Refit at Devonport. It Had Taken 83 Months to Build Her. Her 3 Sisters Averaged 42 Months for the Same Overhaul, and She Came Home in March From a 204-Day Patrol — the Longest in Royal Navy History.

Strategic AssessmentWeapons & EquipmentLogisticsStrategic

HMS Vanguard returned to HM Naval Base Clyde in March 2024 after a record 204-day patrol, highlighting operational challenges faced by the Royal Navy's aging submarine fleet. The vessel's 89-month refit exceeded initial plans, and two recent missile tests failed, raising concerns about the reliability of Britain's nuclear deterrent. The Royal Navy's four Vanguard-class submarines are under increasing pressure as they age beyond their intended service life.

Source: 19FortyFiveMon Sep 14 2026

US, South Korean officials to broach thorny Hormuz mission at talks this week

Political-MilitaryForce MovementStrategic

U.S. and South Korean officials are holding high-level security talks this week to discuss a potential South Korean military deployment to the Strait of Hormuz. The discussions include the deployment of a P-8 Poseidon aircraft and a naval logistics support vessel, involving about 150 personnel. The South Korean government has not made a final decision, as any deployment requires approval from the National Assembly.

Source: Defense NewsMon Sep 14 2026

Dong Jun holds talks with the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense of Laos.

Political-MilitaryMilitary OperationsStrategic

Chinese Defense Minister General Dong Jun met with Laotian Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister General Khamleang in Beijing on October 14, 2023. They discussed enhancing military cooperation and strategic dialogue, emphasizing the importance of their bilateral relationship. The meeting followed the establishment of a '3+3' strategic dialogue mechanism earlier in June 2023.

Source: Global TimesMon Sep 14 2026
China changes law to mobilize all resources in case of conflict. Should neighbors worry?

China changes law to mobilize all resources in case of conflict. Should neighbors worry?

Political-MilitaryForce MovementStrategic

China's armed forces will mobilize all available civilian resources for military purposes under the revised National Defense Mobilization Law, effective October 1, 2023. This change raises concerns for Taiwan and the Philippines, as the People's Liberation Army (PLA) prepares for potential conflict in the Taiwan Strait and South China Sea. Analysts warn that this legal framework enhances China's military readiness and could lead to increased tensions in the region.

Source: Defense NewsMon Sep 14 2026