Analysis & Reports

The Ba Yi Aerobatic Team showcased their new J-10C fighter jets at the Singapore Airshow on February 3, 2023. This marks China's first use of fourth-and-a-half generation fighter jets in an aerial display, highlighting advancements in military capabilities. The team's direct transit to Singapore reflects significant improvements in the Chinese Air Force's long-range operational capabilities, supported by the Yunyou-20 aerial refueling aircraft.

A UN humanitarian aid convoy was attacked by a drone in Central Sudan on February 6, resulting in at least 1 death and multiple injuries. The convoy was en route to deliver aid to displaced families in North Kordofan State. The Sudan Doctors Network has accused the Rapid Support Forces of conducting the attack, amid escalating conflict in the region.

Armed police officers are deployed at Beijing West Railway Station to ensure safety and assist travelers during the Spring Festival travel peak in 2026. They are stationed at key areas, providing security and helping passengers with luggage. A joint mechanism for real-time data sharing has been established with station management and railway police to enhance operational efficiency.

The People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) showcased its long-range air power projection capabilities at the Singapore Airshow 2026, with J-10C fighter jets flying directly from China to Singapore via aerial refueling. This event marks a significant milestone in China's military modernization efforts. Additionally, the J-35A stealth fighter was presented as a potential alternative to the F-35 for international buyers, reflecting China's growing influence in the defense market amid shifting geopolitical dynamics in Southeast Asia.

Li MinghuiSat Feb 07 2026Loading...

The U.S. Air Force conducted war-preparation drills with F-15EX Eagle II and F-35 fighters at Kadena Air Base, Okinawa, Japan, in July 2025. This marked the F-15EX's first overseas deployment, showcasing its capabilities as a high-end force multiplier in Pacific operations. The exercises emphasized the importance of massing airpower in potential engagements with China, leveraging advanced technologies and weaponry.

The U.S. Marine Corps and Japan Ground Self-Defense Force will conduct the Iron Fist 26 military exercise in February 2026 in the Southwestern Islands of Japan, involving approximately 1550 personnel. This exercise signifies a strategic shift in the U.S.-Japan alliance, responding to heightened tensions in the region, particularly from North Korea's missile threats. It aims to enhance joint operational capabilities and strengthen regional defense posture.

Tanaka TakashiSat Feb 07 2026Loading...

China has unveiled the J-35A stealth fighter, which is designed to have significant advantages in detection and strike capabilities, potentially rivaling the U.S. F-35. The J-35A features a twin-engine layout and is reported to possess advanced sensing and targeting systems. This development raises concerns regarding its operational effectiveness against U.S. stealth fighters.

The United States rapidly deployed a large military force in the Gulf region, including F-35 and F-18 fighters, an aircraft carrier, and advanced air defense systems, between January 17 and February 2, 2026. This deployment, in response to rising tensions with Iran, enhances U.S. military readiness and air defense capabilities. The U.S. is now prepared for sustained air operations, with significant logistical support in place.

Ahmed Al-RashidFri Feb 06 2026Loading...

The People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) conducted unprecedented naval operations beyond the First Island Chain in 2025, including live-fire exercises in the Tasman Sea. The Liaoning and Shandong aircraft carriers spent a combined 58 days in the Western Pacific, marking a significant increase in their operational presence. These developments challenge US military strategy and indicate China's growing maritime power projection capabilities.

Marcus ChenFri Feb 06 2026Loading...

Indonesia has canceled its plans to acquire 24 Boeing F-15EX Eagle II fighters due to stalled negotiations and budget constraints. The decision comes as Indonesia ramps up defense spending, focusing on the acquisition of 42 Dassault Rafale fighters, which will become the backbone of its airpower modernization. The complexity of maintaining a mixed fleet of aircraft has raised concerns about logistics and support costs.

Electro Optic Systems (EOS) opened a new manufacturing and integration facility in Singapore on February 6, 2026, to produce high-energy laser weapon systems for customers in Asia and Europe. This facility will serve as EOS' primary regional center for directed-energy capabilities, supporting contracts with the Netherlands and South Korea. The hub aims to enhance supply chain resilience and provide localized support for air defense systems.

China's submarine force is expanding and modernizing, posing a significant challenge to U.S. naval dominance. The People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) operates a diverse fleet of submarines, including SSBNs and SSNs, with advancements in domestic designs. However, U.S. industrial delays and strategic assessments indicate potential vulnerabilities in maintaining undersea primacy. Additionally, China's ambitions in the Arctic raise further concerns regarding its military capabilities.

Xi Jinping has purged senior military leaders from the People's Liberation Army (PLA) between 2023 and 2025, citing corruption and bureaucratic politics as key reasons. The most notable removal was Zhang Youxia, vice chairman of the Central Military Commission. This has led to a significant reduction in the PLA's leadership, with only two official members remaining in the CMC. The purges have affected multiple branches of the military, indicating a broader restructuring under Xi's command.

China showcased the Luan Niao mothership concept, designed to deploy 88 Xuan Nu autonomous fighter drones and hyper-ballistic missiles. This mothership is proposed to operate at the edge of space, with dimensions significantly larger than any existing aircraft. Analysts regard this concept as aspirational, primarily serving as a recruitment and messaging tool rather than an immediate military capability.

Shield AI integrated its AI-enabled software into Singaporean military applications to enhance drone swarm coordination. On February 5, 2025, Shield AI and ST Engineering signed a memorandum of understanding at the Singapore Airshow. The Singapore Armed Forces utilized over 100 drones during Exercise Wallaby, marking a significant operational milestone.

Hyundai Rotem is developing the K3 main battle tank in South Korea, featuring hydrogen power and stealth technology. The tank will include a 130mm smoothbore main gun, an AI-enabled fire-control system, and advanced defensive measures. Production is anticipated to start by 2040, aiming to enhance the Republic of Korea Army's capabilities against potential threats.

The Singapore Airshow is currently ongoing at the Changi Exhibition Centre from February 3 to February 8, 2026, featuring over 1,000 defense and aviation organizations. The event showcases various military aircraft, including the US Air Force's MQ-9 Reaper and the Royal Australian Air Force's F-35A Lightning II. Additionally, the Chinese military is represented with a mockup of the Shenyang J-35A fighter.

China is expanding its naval capabilities, potentially operating nine aircraft carriers by 2035, including the advanced Fujian. This shift from coastal defense to blue-water operations complicates U.S. military planning in the Western Pacific. The People's Liberation Army Navy is increasing its activity around Taiwan and the South China Sea, indicating a strategic intent to project power beyond its home waters.

Singapore is set to receive its first four F-35B fighters by the end of 2026, becoming the fourth Asia-Pacific nation to operate the fifth-generation aircraft. The Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) has a total of 20 F-35s on order, including additional F-35As expected by 2030. This acquisition enhances Singapore's air combat capabilities, positioning it as a leading military power in Southeast Asia.

The USS Cincinnati conducted a port call at Ream Naval Base in Cambodia last week, marking a significant moment in U.S.-Cambodia relations. Analysts warn that this visit may provoke a response from China, which views Cambodia as part of its sphere of influence. The base, rebuilt by China, is crucial for projecting military power in the region, and the U.S. presence could alter the strategic balance in Southeast Asia.