Analysis & Reports

The Type 076 amphibious assault ship Sichuan has marked its deck and installed arrestor wires as part of its preparation for operations. The ship was launched on December 27, 2024, and is scheduled to complete its first sailing test in November 2025.

The Fujian aircraft carrier conducted its first live naval training exercise in Fujian Province, involving multiple vessels and aircraft including J-35 and KJ-600. The exercises focused on carrier operations, aircraft launches, and joint search and rescue missions, marking a significant step in the operational readiness of the People's Liberation Army Navy. This event highlights the transition of the Fujian from a test platform to a combat-ready naval asset.

Li MinghuiSun Jul 05 2026Loading...

Feng Yufang, a prominent missile technology expert in China, has significantly advanced missile capabilities since 1987, focusing on penetration technology for the Dongfeng series missiles. His contributions have been crucial for China's nuclear deterrent and military strength. Despite health challenges, he continued to lead research and development efforts, leaving a lasting impact on the Rocket Force of the People's Liberation Army.

Japan participated in the RIMPAC 2026 exercise, deploying over 25,000 personnel and 40 vessels, while also conducting joint exercises with the U.S. in the Pacific. The Japan Self-Defense Forces deployed Osprey aircraft and coastal defense missiles to strategic locations, indicating a shift towards enhanced military capabilities and offensive postures. These actions are part of a broader trend of Japan accelerating its military readiness and capabilities in response to regional security challenges.

The U.S. Army deployed the Typhon missile system to Kagoshima for joint training with Japan Self-Defense Forces as part of the multinational exercise Valiant Shield 2026, which began in late June 2023. This deployment highlights a strategic shift towards land-based missile capabilities in the region, enhancing deterrence against potential threats. The Typhon system, capable of launching SM-6 and Tomahawk missiles, signifies a new phase in U.S.-Japan military cooperation.

Tanaka TakashiSun Jul 05 2026Loading...

The U.S. Navy is investing billions to enhance the operational range of its aircraft carriers in response to the threat posed by China's long-range missiles. Recent conflicts in the Red Sea and Black Sea have highlighted the vulnerabilities of naval forces, prompting the development of new technologies like the MQ-25 tanker and F/A-XX fighter. While no U.S. aircraft carrier has been sunk, the evolving threat landscape necessitates a reevaluation of naval strategies and capabilities.

In 1980, the Rocket Force of the People's Liberation Army launched the Dongfeng-5 intercontinental missile, marking a significant advancement in China's military capabilities. This event reflects a transition from a cumbersome manpower structure to a more efficient operational model. Over 44 years, the missile program has evolved, enhancing China's strategic deterrence and military readiness.

North Korea conducted a performance evaluation test of the 'Kang Kyun' destroyer's combat system on July 3, observed by Kim Jong-un. The test involved strategic cruise missile launches and trials of naval guns and electronic warfare systems. Kim emphasized the need to enhance military capabilities and ordered the destroyer to be commissioned into the navy within two months after the tests.

Russian forces conducted large-scale attacks on Ukrainian targets, targeting fuel and energy infrastructure, while Ukrainian forces engaged in firefights and struck Russian command posts. In Kharkiv Oblast, Russian forces increased control over 4 populated areas. The conflict saw 268 recorded instances of firefights and significant drone activity from both sides.

Two YF-23 stealth fighters, built by Northrop and McDonnell Douglas, exist in contrasting conditions: PAV-1 is honored indoors at the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force in Ohio, while PAV-2 is displayed outdoors at the Western Museum of Flight in California, missing its engines. Both prototypes were part of the Advanced Tactical Fighter competition, but only PAV-1 remains fully intact and preserved.

Russia has patented a tracked robot that can launch and retrieve a drone, enhancing ground reconnaissance capabilities. This unmanned ground-flying vehicle is designed to improve situational awareness for military operations. The Russian Defense Ministry is actively developing such technologies to address battlefield challenges. The patent indicates a significant advancement in integrating aerial and ground capabilities for military use.

Turkey conducted a successful live-fire test of the TAYFUN Block-3 anti-ship ballistic missile, striking a moving target with precision. This test marks Turkey's entry into the exclusive group of nations capable of deploying anti-ship ballistic missiles. The missile's development is part of Turkey's broader strategy to enhance its defense capabilities and reduce reliance on foreign suppliers.

Ukraine publicly displayed its coastal defense systems, including the Harpoon missile system, for the first time in Odesa this week. The event showcased the Neptune missile system, Norway's Naval Strike Missile, and Sweden's RBS-15, highlighting Ukraine's enhanced strike capabilities. This unveiling confirms the operational status of these systems, which have already contributed to military engagements against Russian forces.

Northrop Grumman redesigned the B-2 Bomber in the 1980s for a low-altitude mission that was ultimately canceled, leading to unnecessary costs and complexity. The new B-21 Raider, currently in flight testing, omits the B-2's sawtooth design, indicating a return to a simpler, high-altitude focus. This design choice reflects lessons learned from the B-2 program, aiming to avoid costly mid-development changes and maintain operational efficiency.

Russia is actively using MiG-31 aircraft to launch Kinzhal hypersonic missiles in Ukraine and probe NATO's borders. The MiG-31, the fastest combat jet in service, has been crucial since February 2022, but Russia cannot produce new units, leading to a diminishing fleet. Ukrainian forces have targeted these aircraft to disrupt their operations, highlighting their strategic importance.

In 1997, the U.S. purchased 21 MiG-29 fighter jets from Moldova for $40 million to prevent their acquisition by Iran. The jets were dismantled and sent to Ohio for intelligence purposes. Moldova's defense minister, Valeriu Pasat, was later imprisoned for selling the jets too cheaply. Six MiG-29s remained unsold in Moldova, highlighting the complexities of the deal.

On July 2, 2023, Russian forces launched a massive airstrike on Kyiv, deploying 74 missiles and 496 drones. Despite Ukrainian air defenses intercepting 48 missiles and 476 drones, 25 ballistic missiles and 12 drones successfully struck 33 locations. The attack lasted over 11 hours, with civilians taking shelter in the metro as a precaution against the strikes.

Dmitri VolkovSat Jul 04 2026Loading...

Houthi forces launched surface-to-air missiles at Saudi fighter jets near Sanaa on July 3, 2026, as an Iranian flight carrying 200 passengers landed. The Houthi spokesperson warned Saudi Arabia against further airspace violations, indicating a significant escalation in military tensions. This incident highlights the ongoing conflict dynamics and the Houthi's intent to assert control over airspace.

Ahmed Al-RashidSat Jul 04 2026Loading...

On December 17, 1958, the U.S. Navy selected the F-4 Phantom II as its next fleet-defense fighter, rejecting the Vought Crusader III. This decision resulted in the cancellation of Vought's major programs, leading to nearly 4,000 job losses. The Crusader III, which had superior speed and performance, was later used by NASA for sonic boom research, but no airframes remain today.

The U.S. Armed Forces conducted a nine-hour airshow in Washington, D.C. on July 4th, 2023, featuring hundreds of planes from various military branches. The event included historic F-5s, modern fighter jets, and military parachute teams. The airshow was scheduled to have multiple waves of aircraft, with the final event planned for 10:36 p.m. alongside a fireworks display.