Analysis & Reports
AI-assisted analysis of military-related information from public sources
China’s New J-20S Stealth Fighter Is A Big Headache for U.S. Navy Aircraft Carriers
China unveiled the J-20S stealth fighter at the Zhuhai Airshow in November 2022, marking its entry into limited operational service within the People's Liberation Army Air Force. The J-20S enhances targeting capabilities for anti-ship missiles and features a second cockpit for a weapons systems officer. With over 300 J-20 aircraft built, China aims to challenge U.S. naval dominance in the East and South China Seas.
Zero Time Difference: What Japan's Acceleration of "Defensive to Offensive" Deployment of Remote Missiles Means
On March 31, Japan deployed Type 25 Surface-to-Ship Missiles and Type 25 High-Speed Glide Bombs at military bases in Kumamoto City and Shizuoka Prefecture. This action signifies a shift in Japan's defense policy towards offensive military capabilities, raising concerns among local residents and regional stability. The missiles have a range of approximately 1000 kilometers, which exceeds Japan's territorial limits.
Chinese Foreign Ministry: The Consequences of Japan Deploying Long-Range Missiles Are Unimaginable
Japan Self-Defense Forces deployed long-range missile systems capable of striking enemy bases in Kumamoto and Shizuoka on March 31, 2023. Russian officials criticized this move as a dangerous shift away from Japan's pacifist constitution, indicating a trend towards militarization. The Russian Foreign Ministry is evaluating Japan's actions to ensure adequate defense capabilities.
China Just Operated Three Aircraft Carriers at Sea Simultaneously for the First Time — That’s Not the Same as Being Able To Do It Again
China's PLA Navy operated three aircraft carriers—Liaoning, Shandong, and Fujian—simultaneously at sea for the first time, marking a significant step in its naval capabilities. This operation indicates China's shift towards power projection beyond regional defense. The PLAN aims to expand its fleet to five or six carriers to enhance its operational reach across the Indo-Pacific and beyond.
84 A-6 Intruders Were Shot Down Over Vietnam — The Navy Kept Sending Them Because Nothing Else Could Bomb That Accurately at Night
The A-6 Intruder served as a crucial bombing aircraft for the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps during the Vietnam War, conducting numerous missions and achieving high accuracy in strikes. A total of 84 A-6s were lost, primarily due to ground fire and enemy aircraft. Its capabilities allowed for effective air support, significantly impacting ground operations against North Vietnamese forces.
Hormuz disruption will change trade — and defense — at other chokepoints
Disruptions in maritime chokepoints, particularly the Strait of Hormuz, are reshaping global trade and security dynamics. The U.S. Navy and allied forces are adjusting their maritime patrols in response to increased risks in the Bab al-Mandeb and Black Sea regions. A significant rise in traffic through Istanbul is anticipated, while the Panama Canal faces potential disruptions. The interconnected nature of these chokepoints necessitates coordinated military and logistical responses to maintain stability.
The U.S. Navy Retired Its Iowa-Class Battleships 3 Times — They Kept Coming Back
The U.S. Navy reactivated and modernized its four Iowa-class battleships during the Korean War and again in the 1980s to counter the Soviet naval threat. These ships, equipped with advanced weaponry including Tomahawk and Harpoon missiles, played crucial roles in naval operations. Following the Cold War, they were permanently decommissioned and converted into museum ships to preserve their legacy.
Iran's Revolutionary Guard Claims "Complete Control" Over Hormuz Strait Situation
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Navy conducted multiple strikes against various targets in the Strait of Hormuz on April 1, 2023, claiming complete control over the situation. The strikes involved ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and drones, targeting U.S. radar facilities and an Israeli oil tanker. The IRGC emphasized that the Strait will not be opened to adversaries due to U.S. actions.
The Air Force Planned To Buy 700 F-22 Raptors and Stopped at 187 — Now It’s About To Make the Same Mistake With the F-47
The U.S. Air Force plans to procure approximately 200 F-47 aircraft, reflecting concerns about attrition in modern air combat. The operational environment in the Indo-Pacific, particularly around Taiwan, poses significant challenges, with expectations of high aircraft loss rates. Historical lessons from the F-22 program highlight the risks of underestimating the required fleet size for sustained conflict.
NIOA, GD-OTS to explore Australian assembly of Apache Hydra-70s
NIOA and General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems (GD-OTS) have entered into an agreement to explore the supply of 70mm rockets for the Australian Army's AH-64E Apache helicopters. This collaboration aims to enhance the capabilities of the Australian Army's aerial support.
China’s New Strategic H-20 Stealth Bomber Might Have 2 Problems No One Is Talking About
The People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) is developing the H-20 stealth bomber, which has faced delays and potential issues with stealth technology and engine performance. Since 2025, there has been a significant lack of information regarding its development. Experts suggest that the H-20 may not be operational until the 2030s, potentially lagging behind US advancements in next-generation combat aircraft.
China’s Aircraft Carriers Have a ‘Missile Shield’ the U.S. Navy Can’t Crack
China has established a robust A2/AD network around the First Island Chain, utilizing long-range missiles and aircraft carriers to deter U.S. Navy operations. This strategy allows China to dominate the region, posing significant challenges to U.S. and allied forces, particularly Japan and Taiwan. The Chinese military's focus on regional defense and offensive capabilities highlights the evolving security dynamics in the Indo-Pacific.
America's Forward Edge: The U.S.-Philippines Defense Buildup and the Shifting Balance of Power in the Indo-Pacific
The U.S. and Philippines agreed to conduct over 500 military activities in 2026, enhancing their defense cooperation amid rising tensions in the Indo-Pacific. The U.S. has committed $144 million to upgrade Philippine bases for military operations, including the permanent deployment of Typhon missile systems. Trilateral exercises with Japan have also been conducted in the South China Sea, reflecting a coordinated effort to deter Chinese military actions.
Marcus ChenWed Apr 01 2026Loading...
China's Unmanned Flying Gun Exposed! May Reshape Infantry Combat Mode
China showcased two types of unmanned firearms that combine firearms with drones for targeting and shooting specific targets in the air. The integrated unmanned firearm can utilize an 18.4mm shotgun or a 9mm submachine gun, while the pod-type firearm is equipped with a 191 automatic rifle. Both systems demonstrated high accuracy during testing and can operate independently or in coordination with ground units.
Listen! The Deep Blue Oath of the "Three Aircraft Carrier Guests"
The People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) conducted a joint display of naval strength with three aircraft carriers: Liaoning, Shandong, and Fujian, in the South China Sea. This event showcased China's commitment to enhancing its naval capabilities and asserting its presence in the region.
U.S. approves $340M support package for Japan’s hypersonic missile
The U.S. Department of State approved a $340 million support package for Japan's hypersonic missile program on March 25, 2026. This package includes logistics and test preparation services for Japan's upgraded Hyper Velocity Gliding Projectile (HVGP) capability. The approval aims to enhance Japan's defense capabilities amid rising security concerns in the Indo-Pacific region.
A New Phase in the Japan-U.S. Alliance: Increased Production of SM-3, Development of Pacific Defense Bases, and a Turning Point in Northeast Asian Security
In March 2026, Japan and the U.S. agreed to enhance military cooperation, including a fourfold increase in domestic production of SM-3 Block IIA missiles and the establishment of a new Pacific defense planning office. The U.S. will also outsource maintenance of F-15 and F-16 engines to Japan, aiming to improve operational readiness. These developments signify a shift in Japan's role from a defensive posture to active participation in regional security.
Tanaka TakashiWed Apr 01 2026Loading...
25 Years Later! His Grave is Once Again Filled with Fighter Jet Models
On April 1, 2026, the Zhejiang Armed Police Corps commemorated the 25th anniversary of naval aviator Wang Wei's sacrifice at Anxian Cemetery in Hangzhou. Wang Wei died in 2001 while intercepting a U.S. reconnaissance aircraft. The event highlighted the evolution of China's naval aviation capabilities over the past 25 years, reflecting on Wang Wei's legacy and the ongoing commitment of military personnel to defend the nation.
Accelerated Modernization of the People's Liberation Army in 2026: The Strategic Logic Behind a 7% Increase in Defense Budget
China's defense budget increased by 7% to approximately 1.91 trillion RMB on March 5, 2026, reflecting a strategic focus on military modernization. The People's Liberation Army (PLA) maintains around 2.035 million active personnel and is expanding its naval and aerial capabilities, including the development of advanced aircraft carriers and stealth bombers. This budget growth signals a commitment to enhancing military strength despite economic pressures.
Li MinghuiWed Apr 01 2026Loading...South Korea's "Falcon" Fighter Jet Begins Mass Production
South Korea has begun mass production of the KF-21 fighter jet, with the first unit completed in March 2023 in Sacheon, Gyeongsangnam-do. The Korean Air Force has ordered 40 jets, with plans for an additional 80, and the first eight are expected to be operational by the end of 2023. This initiative is part of a $6.6 billion project aimed at modernizing the air force's aging fleet.
