Analysis & Reports

Japan, the United Kingdom, and Italy extended the Global Combat Air Programme contract through the end of 2027, resolving funding issues caused by the UK's delayed defense spending plan. The extension allows the demonstrator aircraft to proceed on schedule, with its first flight expected before the end of 2027. The program aims to develop a sixth-generation fighter aircraft to replace the Eurofighter Typhoon and Mitsubishi F-2 jets.

USS Midway (CV-41) was commissioned on September 10, 1945, and served in various military operations until its decommissioning in 1992. It played significant roles in the Vietnam War and Operation Desert Storm, adapting to the changing demands of naval aviation. The carrier was notable for its long service life and contributions to U.S. naval power during the Cold War and beyond.

China showcased a YY-20 tanker alongside a sixth generation fighter in a video, highlighting advancements in aerial refueling capabilities. This development suggests a strategic shift in the People's Liberation Army Air Force's operational reach, particularly concerning potential operations near Taiwan. The YY-20's capabilities are expected to enhance the PLA's ability to conduct extended air operations by 2026.

Marcus ChenTue Jun 30 2026Loading...

China's H-20 stealth bomber program remains stalled due to significant industrial challenges, with no confirmed prototype or production line as of 2025. The Xi’an Aircraft Corporation, part of AVIC, struggles with engine development and materials science, hindering progress. The U.S. Department of Defense anticipates the H-20's operational debut in the 2030s, reflecting ongoing issues in China's military aerospace capabilities.

The Japan Ground Self-Defense Force and U.S. Marine Corps conducted the first landing of a V-22 Osprey at Miyako Airport on June 29, part of a joint military exercise. Local citizens protested the landing, expressing concerns over safety and potential military use of the airport. The exercise aimed at casualty transport was ultimately canceled due to adverse weather conditions.

The 8th Theater Sustainment Command of the United States Army is currently utilizing artificial intelligence and autonomous watercraft to enhance logistics operations in the Pacific. The command is testing a new Maneuver Support Vessel (Light) and aims to deploy 30 to 100 medium-sized autonomous vessels across the region to meet logistical demands. Current maritime laws are being evaluated to facilitate the use of unmanned systems in port operations.

The U.S. Army is addressing the Pacific lift gap by developing a fleet of 100 autonomous drone boats for logistics support, aiming for testing by summer 2025. The mission-capable rate of existing Pacific-based watercraft has significantly declined, prompting the activation of additional transportation units. The Army's new Maneuver Support Vessel (Light) has demonstrated capabilities for shallow-water operations, essential for island-chain conflicts.

Marcus ChenTue Jun 30 2026Loading...

The 74th Group Army conducted full-process assessments in logistics support roles in the Gobi Desert, focusing on driving, medical, and cooking capabilities. Multiple vehicles were deployed for rapid movement, and medical personnel established field stations for casualty treatment. Cooking teams efficiently prepared and delivered meals under time constraints. The unit plans to address identified shortcomings to enhance operational readiness.

Japan Ground Self-Defense Force and U.S. Marine Corps conducted joint training exercises focused on island supply operations at Ishigaki Airport and Ishigaki Port from June 20 to June 30, 2023. The training included logistics operations for transporting personnel and equipment, highlighting the importance of maintaining civilian infrastructure during military operations. Coordination with local authorities was also emphasized to minimize disruption during the exercises.

Tanaka TakashiTue Jun 30 2026Loading...

The Australian Army's 3rd Brigade is undergoing a significant transformation in Townsville, increasing its personnel to around 4,000 and expanding its armored vehicle fleet by 630% over three years. This modernization requires a substantial increase in logistics support, with daily fuel needs projected to rise from 40,000 liters to over 300,000 liters. New equipment, including M1A2 Abrams tanks and Hanwha AS9 Huntsman self-propelled howitzers, is being integrated to enhance operational capabilities.

The U.S. Army is addressing a shortage of ships for troop and supply transport in the Pacific by planning to build a fleet of 30 to 100 autonomous watercraft. In 2024, the Army activated its first new composite watercraft company in years and is testing autonomous vessels for logistics operations. The Army's Pacific-based fleet has decreased significantly, and the mission-capable rate of remaining vessels has sharply declined, prompting these initiatives.

The U.S. Army is developing plans to test and deploy 30 to 100 autonomous drone boats to address a shortage of watercraft for troop and supply transport in the Pacific. In 2024, the Army activated a new composite watercraft company in Yokohama, Japan, and is repositioning stored vessels to enhance logistics capabilities. The Army's mission-capable rate for existing vessels has significantly declined, prompting the need for new autonomous solutions.

Valiant Shield 26 and RIMPAC 2026 involved 30,000 personnel and over 206 aircraft across the Northern Mariana Islands, Guam, Japan, and Hawaii from June 22 to July 31, 2026. The exercises emphasized multinational cooperation and operational readiness, while raising concerns about the sustainability of military operations under potential threats. The integration of Japan's Self-Defense Forces marked a significant evolution in coalition capabilities.

Marcus ChenMon Jun 29 2026Loading...

On June 28, 2023, the People's Liberation Army Air Force showcased the Y-20B and Y-20 aerial refueling aircraft, highlighting advancements in long-range delivery and aerial refueling capabilities. The Y-20B features the domestically produced WS-20 engine, enhancing its operational efficiency. The display included the Y-20's ability to transport heavy military equipment and rapid deployment of air defense systems, marking a significant step in China's military modernization efforts.

Li MinghuiMon Jun 29 2026Loading...

The Y-20 aircraft, officially inducted into the People's Liberation Army Air Force on July 6, 2016, has evolved into a crucial component of China's strategic airlift capabilities. Over the past ten years, it has participated in various missions across four continents, enhancing the PLAAF's operational reach and logistics. The Y-20 family includes models such as the Y-20A and Y-20B, demonstrating significant advancements in military transport capabilities.

The U.S. is expanding THAAD and Patriot missile production in 2026 to address increased demand for defense in the Gulf region. This expansion follows significant depletion of U.S. military stockpiles due to recent conflicts, particularly the Iran War. The Gulf states are becoming more reliant on U.S. military support, raising concerns about their strategic independence and the implications of U.S. arms supply prioritization.

Ahmed Al-RashidSun Jun 28 2026Loading...

The Eastern Theater Command Navy conducted a cross-day and night naval training exercise in the East China Sea, involving multiple ships. The exercise featured live-fire drills, including main and secondary gun operations, and night-time supply operations to test tactical effectiveness in complex conditions. The training emphasized coordination and emergency response capabilities among the crew.

Two J-15 fighter jets conducted a training exercise at a base affiliated with the People's Liberation Army Navy Aviation University in China in early June 2023. The report emphasizes the ongoing challenges in training sufficient carrier pilots to operate the increasing number of aircraft, including the new Fujian aircraft carrier. The J-15 is expected to continue playing a crucial role in the PLA Navy's operations for the coming years.

Li MinghuiSat Jun 27 2026Loading...

USARPAC is assessing the use of unmanned surface vessels for logistics in the Pacific, acknowledging that current capabilities are insufficient. During the Salaknib 2026 exercise in the Philippines, unmanned vessels were utilized to support logistics operations. The Army is facing challenges in sustaining operations against potential threats from China, highlighting the need for improved logistics and supply chain solutions.

Marcus ChenFri Jun 26 2026Loading...

The U.S. Navy struggles to repair Arleigh Burke-class destroyers quickly enough for potential conflicts with China, as highlighted in a RAND report from August 2025. The Navy's repair capabilities are inadequate for the level of damage expected in a major war, with logistical challenges exacerbated by geographical disadvantages and reliance on allied shipyards. RAND emphasizes the need for improved wartime repair architecture to ensure combat readiness.

Marcus ChenFri Jun 26 2026Loading...