Analysis & Reports

The People's Liberation Army Navy is expanding recruitment and training channels for naval aviation personnel as of July 13, 2026, to enhance its operational capabilities. This shift aims to transition from temporary personnel assignments to a more sustainable, industrialized approach. The Fujian aircraft carrier is set to operate advanced aircraft, necessitating a skilled workforce to ensure effective operations at sea.

Li MinghuiTue Jul 14 2026Loading...

U.S. and Japanese forces conducted the Pacific Atlas 26-1 exercise from June 15 to 19, 2026, off Yokosuka, verifying logistics capabilities for dispersed maritime operations. The exercise featured the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Midgett and Japan Coast Guard Patrol Vessel Yumehari, demonstrating vertical replenishment (VERTREP) operations. This event aimed to assess communication and supply procedures for sustained operations in the region.

Tanaka TakashiTue Jul 14 2026Loading...

The U.S. Navy is decommissioning the Ticonderoga-class cruisers USS Shiloh and USS Lake Erie, reducing the fleet to three remaining cruisers by 2029. This marks the first time in generations that the Navy will operate no cruisers, significantly impacting naval firepower. The replacement destroyers have fewer missile tubes, exacerbating the loss of capability.

Kongsberg reported a 31% revenue increase to NOK 10,389 million and a nearly 50% rise in operating profit to NOK 1,669 million in the second quarter of 2023. The company secured multiple contracts for its Joint Strike Missile and NASAMS air defense system, with Canada selecting the missile for its F-35A fleet. Kongsberg also expanded its focus on subsea infrastructure protection, reflecting growing interest in defense procurement.

MAURIC partnered with Couach to deliver 24 coastal surveillance patrol vessels for the Maritime Gendarmerie, with the contract awarded on 29 June 2026. The first unit is expected in 2029, and five vessels will be deployed overseas in French Guiana, Mayotte, and New Caledonia. These vessels will support maritime policing and environmental protection missions.

In July 2026, the U.S. Navy submitted a Request for Information (RFI) to South Korean shipyards for the construction of destroyers and medium fleet replenishment ships. This move reflects a strategic shift in U.S. naval procurement, aiming to explore legal exceptions for utilizing allied shipyards. South Korean firms, including HD Hyundai and Hanwha Ocean, are involved in this initiative, which may enhance military cooperation between the U.S. and South Korea.

Tanaka TakashiMon Jul 13 2026Loading...

RIMPAC 2026 involves 30 nations conducting naval exercises in Hawaii, featuring over 30 surface ships, five submarines, and 206 aircraft. Live fire events included torpedo launches by HMCS Ottawa and missile launches by JS Kongo. Concurrently, China and Russia began their Joint Sea 2026 exercise, highlighting regional military tensions. The report emphasizes logistical challenges for sustaining operations in a potential conflict.

Marcus ChenSun Jul 12 2026Loading...

U.S. planners are addressing the limitations of current tanker aircraft, particularly the KC-390, in meeting the refueling needs of military operations in the Pacific by 2026. The report emphasizes the logistical challenges posed by geography and the vulnerability of concentrated tanker bases, particularly in relation to Guam. It suggests that while the KC-390 may offer some operational advantages, a comprehensive refueling architecture is necessary to ensure effective air operations under missile threats.

Marcus ChenSat Jul 11 2026Loading...

From June 20 to June 30, 2026, approximately 9700 personnel from the U.S. Marine Corps and Japan Self-Defense Forces conducted a joint military exercise named Resolute Dragon 26 in the Southwest Islands and Kyushu. The exercise focused on enhancing defense capabilities and control of maritime terrain, involving live-fire training and logistical operations. This marks a significant step in U.S.-Japan military cooperation in the region.

Tanaka TakashiSat Jul 11 2026Loading...

People's Liberation Army personnel conducted rescue operations in Guigang, Guangxi on July 10 in response to severe flooding. They provided medical assistance to a man who fainted due to stress from the disaster and helped evacuate families trapped in their homes. Local citizens supported the military by delivering food and water to the rescue teams.

The U.S. military is evaluating the vulnerability of tanker aircraft bases in the Indo-Pacific, emphasizing the need for a more distributed refueling force. The Air Force's current fleet includes KC-135 and KC-46 aircraft, which are limited in operational locations. Embraer's KC-390 is being considered for its ability to operate from a wider range of airfields, aligning with the Agile Combat Employment concept to enhance operational flexibility.

Thousands of troops from the Southern Theater Command conducted rescue and disaster relief operations in Guangxi from July 9 to 10, 2023. They cleared roads, provided medical assistance, and supported local communities in recovering from the impact of Typhoon Misak. Over 5600 militia members also participated in flood relief efforts across multiple cities, ensuring the safety and recovery of affected populations.

MAURIC partnered with Couach to construct 24 coastal surveillance patrol vessels for the Maritime Gendarmerie, with the first unit expected by 2029. The contract was awarded on 29 June 2026, and five vessels will be deployed overseas in French Guiana, Mayotte, and New Caledonia. The vessels will support maritime policing, counter-trafficking, and search and rescue missions.

An F-15EX Eagle II landed at Kadena Air Base on June 29, 2026, as part of preparations for its deployment. The U.S. Air Force's 67th Fighter Squadron will operate the aircraft, which is set to replace older F-15C/D models. This deployment follows the Valiant Shield 26 exercise and aims to enhance air defense and strike capabilities in the region.

Tanaka TakashiFri Jul 10 2026Loading...

The demand for HIMARS has surged due to its successful deployment in Ukraine, prompting Lockheed Martin to double production to 96 launchers in 2024. Countries like Poland, Estonia, and Canada have placed significant orders, while HIMARS has also been utilized in operations against Iran. Despite its effectiveness, challenges remain with ammunition supply, impacting operational capabilities.

The K9 Thunder howitzer, produced by South Korea's Hanwha Aerospace, has become the most exported tracked self-propelled howitzer globally, outselling competitors like the American M109 Paladin and German PzH 2000. Its success is attributed to rapid delivery, technology transfer, competitive pricing, and a self-sufficient production model. Eleven nations, including Poland and India, have adopted the K9, which is designed for quick firing and mobility, making it a preferred choice in the defense market.

The Pentagon and Silicon Valley are actively pursuing the development of space-based solar power technology to enhance military logistics. The U.S. Air Force has contracted Overview Energy to study its applications in conflict zones like Guam and remote areas such as Alaska and Greenland. The technology aims to provide electricity without relying on vulnerable fuel supply chains, with a demonstration planned for 2028 and commercial operations expected by 2030.

The Southern Theater Command Army conducted rescue operations in Guigang, Guangxi, on July 9, evacuating over 10,000 trapped students and teachers due to severe flooding caused by Typhoon 'Maysak'. Military personnel utilized speedboats to deliver supplies and facilitate the orderly evacuation to safe locations, with local volunteers assisting in the efforts. All individuals were successfully relocated as the military transitioned to further flood response operations.

Japan constructed the Yamato and Musashi, the largest battleships ever built, at Kure and Nagasaki from 1937 to 1945, employing advanced engineering and extensive secrecy. The battleships were armed with nine 46-centimeter guns, and their true capabilities were not recognized by U.S. intelligence until after the war. The construction involved significant logistical efforts, including the creation of specialized transport vessels for the massive turrets.

The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force, Japan Coast Guard, and U.S. Coast Guard conducted VERTREP supply training during the Pacific Atlas 26-1 exercise off Yokosuka from June 15-19. This exercise involved a SH-60J helicopter, Yumihari patrol vessel, and Midgett cutter, focusing on logistics capabilities to support maritime operations. The inclusion of the Japan Coast Guard highlights the importance of inter-agency cooperation in maintaining maritime order.

Tanaka TakashiWed Jul 08 2026Loading...