Analysis & Reports

ST Engineering was awarded a contract by Singapore's Ministry of Defence in December 2025 for the production of next-generation infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs) based on the Terrex s5. The delivery of these vehicles is scheduled to begin in 2028, featuring advanced capabilities such as enhanced situational awareness and cyber security. ST Engineering will work with MINDEF to integrate additional capabilities into the new IFVs.

Contaminated drinking water issues affected the USS Nimitz and USS Abraham Lincoln, with JP-5 jet fuel and E. coli bacteria identified as the contaminants. The USS Nimitz experienced contamination that sickened 11 sailors, while the USS Abraham Lincoln faced E. coli due to a corroded vent pipe. These incidents reveal significant maintenance failures and communication breakdowns within the U.S. Navy's operations.

The first MC-55A Peregrine surveillance and electronic warfare jet arrived at RAAF Base Edinburgh, Australia, late last week. This aircraft, modified from the Gulfstream G550, is part of a four-aircraft acquisition aimed at enhancing Australia's surveillance capabilities. It will be operated by the RAAF's 10 Squadron and is expected to improve the country's ability to monitor its strategic interests and integrate with allied systems.

U.S. President Trump has threatened military action regarding Greenland, while Russia continues to gain ground in Ukraine. China views Taiwan as a potential target for military action, and Iran remains vulnerable yet capable of retaliation. Tensions between India and Pakistan persist following recent military skirmishes, indicating a precarious geopolitical landscape leading into 2026.

On January 26, 2026, three Chinese law enforcement boats launched from Xishuangbanna, Yunnan, as part of the 161st joint patrol and law enforcement operation on the Mekong River. This operation involved two Laotian and one Myanmar law enforcement boats, focusing on coordinated patrols to combat illegal activities in the region. A command meeting was held prior to the operation to align strategies among the participating nations.

The Y-20 transport aircraft, known as 'Fat Girl', has been operational since its first flight on January 26, 2013, significantly enhancing the People's Liberation Army Air Force's strategic airlift capabilities. It has participated in various military operations, including humanitarian missions and international airshows, showcasing its versatility and importance in modern military logistics. The Y-20 continues to evolve, with recent developments including the introduction of domestic engines and new variants.

ST Engineering was awarded a contract by the Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) in December 2025 for the production and supply of next generation Infantry Fighting Vehicles (IFVs) in Singapore. The IFVs, based on the Terrex s5 platform, are scheduled for delivery starting in 2028. This contract highlights ST Engineering's capabilities in advanced defense solutions.

Taiwan conducted its first dive tests of the domestically built Hai Kun submarine in January 2026 at Kaohsiung. This marks a significant step in Taiwan's indigenous submarine program, aimed at strengthening undersea deterrence. The full testing program is expected to conclude by mid-2026, with the submarine's handover to the navy targeted for June 2026, following previous technical setbacks.

The Japanese government is considering nationalizing ammunition production facilities to ensure stable supply during emergencies. This initiative, referred to as 'GOCO' (Government Owned, Contractor Operated), involves discussions with private companies for operational management. The move is prompted by concerns over ammunition shortages, particularly in light of the ongoing Ukraine conflict, and aims to restructure the defense industry for better preparedness.

The U.S. is preparing to deploy 48 F-35A stealth fighters to Misawa Air Base in Japan as part of a modernization plan for tactical aircraft. This deployment will replace 36 older F-16 aircraft, enhancing the U.S. military's deterrence capabilities in the Indo-Pacific region. Preparations for the deployment began in December 2023, with personnel from the 35th Fighter Wing receiving support equipment.

The Southern Theater Command Navy conducted multi-task naval training exercises in the South China Sea, successfully engaging and sinking an enemy drone. Personnel responded swiftly to a fire on a transport ship during the exercise, demonstrating effective coordination and operational readiness. The training aimed to enhance the overall capabilities of the naval forces involved.

Japan is contemplating changes to its non-nuclear principles, with officials suggesting the possibility of acquiring nuclear submarines and weapons. This shift indicates a significant change in Japan's security strategy, moving towards open discussions about nuclear options. The report warns that such developments pose a challenge to global nuclear non-proliferation efforts and could destabilize regional peace.

A U.S. military helicopter flight demonstration at Kadena Air Base in Okinawa on April 22, 2025, resulted in the death of a 60-year-old Japanese teacher. The helicopter was only 25 meters from the teacher, far below the mandated safety distance of 182 meters. The teacher sustained critical injuries from the helicopter's rotor wash and died days later. The U.S. military admitted to planning flaws and insufficient oversight during the event, highlighting ongoing safety concerns regarding military operations in Japan.

The U.S. Air Force developed the D-21 reconnaissance drone in the 1960s to conduct high-speed, high-altitude missions over denied territory. Operational attempts targeting China's Lop Nor nuclear test site occurred between 1969 and 1971 but failed to yield usable intelligence. The program was ultimately canceled in 1971 as satellite technology improved, rendering the D-21 obsolete.

The Y-20 transport aircraft, developed by China, successfully completed its maiden flight 13 years ago. It has since been integrated into the People's Liberation Army Air Force, showcasing capabilities in long-range flights and complex weather operations. The aircraft has played roles in disaster relief and the repatriation of remains, symbolizing its importance in military logistics.

The U.S. Navy's Iowa-Class battleships, including USS Iowa, USS New Jersey, USS Missouri, and USS Wisconsin, engaged in combat operations during the Korean War from 1950 to 1953. They provided naval gunfire support, bombarded enemy positions, and contributed to significant military actions, including the Battle of Inchon and the Battle of Chosin Reservoir. Their presence served as a deterrent and a demonstration of American military strength in the region.

U.S. Deputy Secretary of Defense Elbridge Colby will visit Japan and South Korea to discuss increasing defense spending. The U.S. has urged allies to raise their defense budgets to 5% of GDP, with Japan being particularly vigilant about this pressure. Colby, responsible for defense policy, is expected to directly request Japan to increase its defense expenditures.

General Zhang Youxia of the People's Liberation Army is under investigation for serious violations, disrupting command continuity and delaying military operations against Taiwan. This investigation, confirmed by China's Ministry of National Defense, represents a significant leadership change within the PLA, affecting its operational readiness. The purge has created gaps in command structure, making a major cross-strait operation unlikely in the near term.

Pakistan Air Force Il-78 aircraft were spotted at an airfield in Sichuan province, China, on January 19-20, indicating a temporary logistics operation. The aircraft were involved in cargo handling activities, potentially transporting long-range missiles. This movement highlights the ongoing military cooperation between Pakistan and China.

China has launched an investigation into senior military officials Zhang Youxia and Liu Zhenli for serious violations of discipline and law. The probe, approved by the Communist Party Central Committee, reflects a significant anti-corruption effort within the People's Liberation Army. Military units have been placed on heightened readiness amid concerns about internal stability, as the investigation aims to reinforce discipline and political reliability within the armed forces.