Analysis & Reports
AI-assisted analysis of military-related information from public sources
Southern Theater Command Naval Aviation J-11B Reappears in Air Combat Training, 2026 Old Platform Still on the Frontline Indicates Production Capacity Account
The Southern Theater Command Naval Aviation conducted air combat training with J-11B aircraft from June 12 to 14, 2023, in the South China Sea. Concurrently, Z-20 and Z-20T helicopters engaged in high-altitude training, while Mengshi armored vehicles performed long-distance maneuvers. This indicates a focus on operational readiness and the integration of older and newer military platforms.
Li MinghuiMon Jun 15 2026Loading...When Will Wartime Command Authority Be Reclaimed? South Korea May "Set Goals" Before the End of the Year
South Korea's Defense Minister proposed a target year for regaining wartime operational control from U.S. forces by the end of this year. Discussions will take place at the U.S.-South Korea security meeting in November, with speculation suggesting a target year of 2027. U.S. officials indicated that conditions for this might not be met until the first quarter of 2029. President Yoon Suk-yeol aims to achieve this by 2030.
The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force's Kaga DDH184 Advances F-35B Operational Readiness for 2026 IPD26
The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) deployed the 2nd Surface Unit, consisting of Kaga, Fuyuzuki, and Mashu, from Kure for training and operations with F-35B aircraft. This deployment is part of the Indo-Pacific Deployment 2026, scheduled from April 13 to September 16, 2026. Notably, only the Kongo is listed as a participating Japanese ship in RIMPAC 2026, indicating a shift in mission focus.
Tanaka TakashiMon Jun 15 2026Loading...
He doesn't even dare to walk on a high-altitude glass walkway, yet he flies a fighter jet and has been awarded second-class merit once and third-class merit five times!
Li Jinbo, a seasoned pilot in the People's Liberation Army Air Force, has accumulated nearly 4000 flight hours and received multiple commendations for his service. He is currently focused on training new pilots, emphasizing the importance of operational readiness and loyalty. His experiences highlight the challenges and pressures faced by military aviators in China.
The U.S. Navy’s Nimitz-Class Nuclear Aircraft Carriers Have a Message for Russia and China
USS Nimitz is returning to Naval Station Norfolk after completing its final deployment, which included joint maneuvers with partner nations and community engagement activities in Jamaica. The carrier, commissioned in 1975, has played a crucial role in U.S. naval power for over fifty years and is set to retire in March 2027.
US Revives Submarine Squadron 3 in Australia But AUKUS Still Lacks Boats
The U.S. Navy reestablished Submarine Squadron 3 at HMAS Stirling on June 10, 2026, to support the rotational deployment of four U.S.-commanded nuclear attack submarines in Western Australia starting in 2027. This move aims to enhance operational readiness and logistics for U.S. and U.K. submarines in the region. Additionally, Australia plans to acquire three secondhand Virginia-class submarines beginning in the early 2030s, with ongoing training for Australian maintainers in Hawaii.
Marcus ChenFri Jun 12 2026Loading...
South Korea dissolves spy agency that backed a coup attempt
South Korea's Defense Ministry announced the dissolution of the Defense Counterintelligence Command (DCC) due to its involvement in a failed coup attempt in December 2024. The reform plan aims to restructure military intelligence and prevent political misuse, with new oversight mechanisms to be established. The ministry plans to complete the restructuring by late July or early August 2025.
Naval Fleet Conducts Multi-Subject Training Across Day and Night to Hone Combat Readiness
The Southern Theater Command Navy conducted multi-subject live-fire training exercises in the South China Sea, responding to simulated enemy submarine and aerial attacks. The naval task force employed sonar and radar to detect threats, executed countermeasures, and engaged in various operational scenarios, including anti-terrorism and supply operations. This training aimed to enhance command control and rapid response capabilities.
Estonian startup develops comms module for drone-age warfare
Vegvisir is launching a communications module for military drones at Eurosatory 2026, aimed at maintaining connectivity in contested environments. The module supports various communication channels and is designed for harsh field conditions. It has already secured its first European customer and is being tested in nine countries, including the US and Australia.
Joint Patrols Organized by the People's Liberation Army Garrison in Hong Kong
The People's Liberation Army conducted joint patrols in Hong Kong on June 11, involving land, sea, and air forces. The exercise focused on enhancing emergency response capabilities and operational readiness. The garrison complied with local laws during the patrols, which included high-mobility infantry, main battle ships, and helicopters.
Attack! Watch the Eagle Soar with the Clouds
The Naval Aviation Unit of the Southern Theater Command conducted anti-submarine warfare training involving multiple aircraft. The exercises included sonar buoy deployment and underwater target identification, with operations carried out in both daytime and low visibility conditions at night. This training aimed to improve the crew's emergency response capabilities.
The Closing Ceremony of the China-Mongolia "Prairie Partner-2026" Army Joint Training was Held
The joint military training exercise 'Prairie Partner-2026' concluded on June 6, 2026, at a training base in Inner Mongolia. Chinese and Mongolian Armed Forces conducted live-fire drills, showcasing coordinated operations and real-time intelligence sharing. An award ceremony recognized 60 outstanding personnel, and both sides expressed hopes for future cooperation. Mongolian forces are set to withdraw by June 10, 2026.
China Sends 32 Aircraft Around Taiwan as US Arms Sale Wavers
Thirty-two Chinese military aircraft operated around Taiwan, with 25 crossing the median line into Taiwan's air defense identification zone between June 3 and June 4. Taiwan's armed forces responded with combat air patrols and naval vessels. This activity is part of a broader pattern of PLA operations aimed at testing Taiwan's defense readiness and normalizing pressure in the region.
Marcus ChenSat Jun 06 2026Loading...Chinese Military Efficiently Counteracts Dutch Infringing Vessels and Aircraft: Experts Explain Significant Upgrade in Dispersal Operations
On May 27, 2023, the People's Liberation Army Southern Theater Command engaged multiple naval vessels and aircraft to counter the Dutch Navy frigate 'De Ruyter' which illegally entered Chinese territorial waters near the Xisha Islands. The Chinese forces issued warnings and employed electronic countermeasures during the incident, which was characterized as a serious violation of Chinese sovereignty.
China's Liaoning Carrier Just Flew 170 Deck Cycles Near Japan
The People's Liberation Army Navy's Liaoning aircraft carrier conducted 170 deck cycles over three days from May 26 to 28, 2026, in the Western Pacific, south of Japan. The carrier group included five vessels, demonstrating operational capabilities and rehearsing for potential future military engagements. This activity complicates US and allied operations in the region, indicating a shift in the PLAN's operational comfort.
Marcus ChenThu Jun 04 2026Loading...China's Aircraft Carrier Liaoning to Conduct 170 Takeoffs and Landings in the Pacific in 2026, Pressuring the Japan-U.S.-Philippines Defense Line
Chinese aircraft carrier Liaoning conducted approximately 170 flight operations in the Pacific from May 26 to 28, 2026, near Miyako Island and Okinotorishima. The carrier group included destroyers and frigates, demonstrating a structured naval operation. This activity pressures the Japan-United States-Philippines defense line and raises concerns about regional security dynamics.
Tanaka TakashiThu Jun 04 2026Loading...Liaoning Aircraft Carrier Conducts 170 Takeoffs and Landings in 3 Days, PLA 054B Frigate's First Escort Mission Exposes Shortcomings in Deep Sea Operations
The Liaoning aircraft carrier conducted approximately 170 takeoffs and landings of J-15 fighter jets and helicopters from May 26 to 28, 2023, in the Western Pacific, east of the Philippines. The 054B frigate participated in these exercises for the first time, indicating an upgrade in the People's Liberation Army Navy's operational capabilities. These activities are part of China's ongoing efforts to improve its naval presence and operational readiness in the region.
Li MinghuiThu Jun 04 2026Loading...
Navy fires entire leadership team of ship repair facility in Japan
The U.S. Navy relieved Capt. Wendel Penetrante, Capt. Edwin Catubig, and Master Chief Petty Officer Thomas Dean Howell of their duties at the ship repair facility in Yokosuka, Japan, on Wednesday due to a loss of confidence in their command abilities. This decision reflects a significant leadership change within the facility, which supports the U.S. 7th Fleet.
Liaoning's 170th Aircraft Carrier Operations Indicate the Normalization of the Chinese Navy in the Western Pacific
The Chinese aircraft carrier Liaoning conducted approximately 170 takeoffs and landings of fighter jets and helicopters from May 26 to 28, 2023, in the West Pacific, indicating a shift towards regular naval aviation operations. The carrier group, consisting of five ships, was observed southwest of Okinawa, with implications for regional security dynamics as Japan and the Philippines enhance their defense cooperation. This operational activity reflects the growing capabilities of the People's Liberation Army Navy.
Tanaka TakashiTue Jun 02 2026Loading...China Liaoning Carrier Drills 170 Flights East of Luzon and Shrinks the Philippine Cushion
The Chinese aircraft carrier Liaoning conducted 170 flight operations east of Luzon from May 26 to May 28, accompanied by a group of escort vessels. This operation is viewed as a strategic maneuver to enhance China's naval presence and challenge US military logistics in the region. The drills signify a shift from demonstration to practical rehearsal for potential conflicts involving Taiwan and the Philippines.
Marcus ChenMon Jun 01 2026Loading...
