Analysis & Reports

The Japan Ground Self-Defense Force deployed the Type 25 anti-ship guided missile for the first time in the Keen Sword exercise in October 2026. This exercise, held at Oyanohara in Kumamoto, will involve sharing target information with U.S. forces to enhance joint operational capabilities. The focus is on integrating missile operations with U.S. ISR assets to improve defense against regional threats.

Tanaka TakashiFri Oct 16 2026Loading...

The 76th Group Army conducted comprehensive field training exercises in Xinjiang, focusing on logistics, supply, and equipment maintenance. Troops rapidly responded to simulated wartime scenarios, including water purification and search and rescue operations using drones. The exercises emphasized the importance of maintaining equipment in harsh conditions to ensure operational readiness.

Okinawa Prefecture plans to allow the U.S. military to continue deploying Osprey transport aircraft at Futenma Air Station in Ginowan. Governor Gunta Gushiken stated that the aircraft has been in use for over ten years, and given that the Japan Self-Defense Forces also use the model, it is unrealistic to demand its removal. This marks a significant shift from the local government's previous opposition to the deployment.

The Liaoning Carrier Group conducted training exercises in the western Pacific from October 14-15, 2026, overlapping with U.S.-Japan military drills. This operation marks a significant extension of Chinese naval training beyond coastal waters, involving coordination with destroyers and support vessels. Additionally, Chinese forces engaged a Philippine military helicopter near Scarborough Shoal during this timeframe, highlighting regional tensions.

Li MinghuiFri Oct 16 2026Loading...

The U.S. Marine Corps deployed NMESIS and MADIS on Yonaguni Island as part of the joint military exercise 'Keen Sword 26' from October 19 to 29, 2026. The Japan Self-Defense Forces are enhancing their Type 12 anti-ship missile capabilities. The exercise involves approximately 45,000 personnel from 9 countries, indicating a significant military collaboration aimed at countering regional threats.

Tanaka TakashiFri Oct 16 2026Loading...

China's J-20S stealth fighter is designed for precision strikes against maritime targets, enhancing its role beyond air superiority. Announced on January 11, 2026, the J-20S features advanced electronic warfare and command-and-control capabilities. However, the specific anti-ship weapons it can carry remain unidentified, raising questions about its operational effectiveness against US Navy forces in the region.

North Korea conducted tests of two types of submarine-launched strategic cruise missiles on October 14, 2026. This event marks the first public demonstration of such capabilities in nearly three years, raising concerns for Japan, the U.S., and South Korea regarding maritime security. The specific details of the missiles remain unverified, but the tests indicate North Korea's intent to strengthen its maritime nuclear deterrence.

Tanaka TakashiThu Oct 15 2026Loading...

The Liaoning aircraft carrier group conducted training exercises in the Philippine Sea on October 15, 2026, involving four ships and 10 aircraft. This operation coincided with increased military activity reported by Taiwan, as the PLA prepares for potential large-scale drills. The training is seen as a response to upcoming US-Japan joint military exercises in the region.

Li MinghuiThu Oct 15 2026Loading...

The U.S. Army is training warrant officers as robotics technicians (MOS 390A) to adapt unmanned systems for battlefield use. Their final exercise will take place at Clarke Range, Alabama, in November, where they will demonstrate their ability to operate under stress and without reliance on external technology. This training is informed by experiences from recent conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East.

China's People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) is expanding its fleet of Chengdu J-20 Mighty Dragon stealth fighters, with estimates suggesting around 520 J-20s in service. This brings China close to the US Air Force's inventory of 550-580 F-35As as of July 2026. The J-20's production rate could soon close the numerical gap, impacting air superiority dynamics.

The Liaoning aircraft carrier group is conducting training in the Western Pacific, marking its second deployment this year. This operation includes the Liaoning, two Type 055 destroyers, and one Type 052D destroyer, aimed at enhancing the group's operational capabilities. This year also marks the 10th anniversary of the Liaoning's first deployment to the region, reflecting the evolution of the Chinese Navy's operational strategy.

Canada is reviewing its purchase of 16 F-35s and considering the JAS-39 Gripen due to a shortage of qualified pilots and technicians. The Royal Canadian Air Force faces challenges in transitioning to two new fleets, with operational readiness at risk. The Auditor General's report indicates that the F-35 training program will not produce enough pilots by 2032-33. Transition to the new fighter jets is scheduled to begin in 2028.

Taiwan is expanding its Military Police Command to 11,000 personnel by 2026 to enhance its defense capabilities against potential Chinese attacks. The force will operate as motorized infantry in critical areas, utilizing advanced equipment such as counter-drone systems and jam-resistant communications. This expansion aims to secure key infrastructure and maintain command continuity during a crisis.

Marcus ChenThu Oct 15 2026Loading...

The Russian Navy has completed seven Yasen-class submarines, with three more under construction and orders for two additional units. The Severodvinsk, the first of its class, has demonstrated advanced capabilities, operating undetected off the US East Coast and in the Mediterranean. The submarines are equipped with cutting-edge technology, including a wrap-around passive sonar system and a quiet propulsion system, making them formidable in naval warfare.

Daimler Truck Defence will supply 61 Mercedes-Benz Unimog vehicles to the New Zealand Defence Force as part of a fleet renewal programme. The vehicles are intended for training, transport, and disaster relief operations. Delivery is scheduled to begin in 2027, marking a significant investment by the New Zealand Government to modernize its logistics and support fleet.

Hanwha Systems successfully demonstrated its Cheongwang laser air defense weapon in Seoul on October 15, 2026, achieving a 100% success rate in intercepting three target drones. The demonstration was part of the Army TIGER+ Future Warfare Integrated Combat Exercise, attended by 500 key personnel, including military officials. Cheongwang is recognized as the world's first operationally deployed laser weapon system, showcasing advanced capabilities in air defense against drone threats.

Wang Ji was honored at a report event on October 13 at Harbin Engineering University for his contributions to defense research and education. Despite facing personal challenges, he has remained dedicated to national defense, embodying the spirit of 'Harbin Military Industry'. The event featured six members sharing their experiences alongside Wang Ji.

On October 26, 2006, a Chinese Type 039 Song-class submarine surfaced undetected within five miles of the USS Kitty Hawk off Okinawa. The U.S. Navy had been in a relaxed posture and was conducting routine exercises, which allowed the submarine to approach without detection. This incident underscored the growing sophistication of China's submarine capabilities and raised concerns about U.S. naval readiness.

Thales Australia unveiled the BladeHaul extra-large unmanned ground vehicle (UGV) in Perth on October 6, 2023. The UGV is designed for heavy battlefield logistics, capable of carrying over 10 tons and generating 1MW of power. It can serve various roles, including transporting missiles and providing power to military operations. Development of its autonomy system is underway in partnership with Deakin University.

The U.S. Navy operates the USS Theodore Roosevelt as the sole nuclear-powered aircraft carrier in the Western Pacific as of October 13, 2026. Meanwhile, the USS George Washington and USS George H.W. Bush are deployed in the Arabian Sea, and the USS Abraham Lincoln has returned to San Diego after a lengthy deployment. This limited carrier presence raises concerns about the Navy's ability to respond effectively in a Taiwan contingency.

Marcus ChenThu Oct 15 2026Loading...