Analysis & Reports

The Southern Theater Command of the People's Liberation Army conducted combat readiness patrols around Scarborough Shoal on February 28. These patrols are part of ongoing efforts to assert China's sovereignty and respond to provocations in the region, ensuring national security and stability in the South China Sea.

The China Coast Guard conducted law enforcement patrols in the waters around Huangyan Island on February 28. This operation is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen control over the area and assert territorial sovereignty, addressing illegal vessels in accordance with laws and regulations.

On February 27, 2024, the Chinese government announced the dismissal of nine senior military officers from the People's Liberation Army (PLA) as part of an anti-corruption campaign. This follows the investigation of Zhang Youxia, the Vice Chairman of the Central Military Commission, and marks a significant shift in military leadership. The total number of military representatives in the National People's Congress has decreased from 252 to 243, indicating ongoing political purges within the military.

Li MinghuiSat Feb 28 2026Loading...

On February 28, a Chinese military spokesperson stated that China's military actions are legitimate and aimed at protecting national sovereignty in response to Japan's claims of increased military threats. The spokesperson criticized Japan's historical militarism and urged the international community to resist Japan's new militaristic tendencies, emphasizing the need to uphold post-World War II international order.

On February 28, the Chinese Defense Ministry criticized U.S. accusations regarding China's alleged nuclear testing in 2020. The spokesperson emphasized China's commitment to a no-first-use nuclear policy and accused the U.S. of undermining international nuclear stability with its nuclear arsenal and policies. China called on the U.S. to comply with the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty.

On February 28, the Taiwanese government announced plans to accelerate military procurement from the U.S. to enhance its asymmetric warfare capabilities. The spokesperson criticized this approach as wasteful and harmful to Taiwan's security, warning against reliance on foreign support for independence and highlighting the risks of separatism and foreign interference.

On February 28, the Chinese Armed Forces stated their commitment to maintaining sovereignty in the South China Sea amid joint patrols by the U.S., Philippines, Japan, and Australia near Huangyan Island. The spokesperson criticized these foreign military activities as provocations that threaten regional peace. China maintains that it will not allow any disruptive schemes in the South China Sea and will respond firmly to any infringements.

Japan and South Korea agreed to resume joint maritime search and rescue training on January 30, 2026, in Yokosuka, marking a significant shift in defense cooperation after a 9-year hiatus. The agreement includes collaboration on advanced defense technologies such as AI and unmanned systems, reflecting a response to regional security challenges posed by North Korea and China. Both nations' defense ministers emphasized the importance of ongoing communication and cooperation to address mutual security concerns.

Tanaka TakashiSat Feb 28 2026Loading...

The Eastern Theater Command Air Force conducted joint military exercises in Eastern China, involving multiple aircraft and ground units. Red and Blue forces engaged in simulated combat, with Red forces employing advanced tactics such as electronic warfare and low-altitude penetration. Ground units established a layered air defense system, enhancing their joint operational capabilities.

Japanese citizens gathered in Tokyo on the 27th to oppose the construction of the U.S. military base in Henoko, Okinawa, and to voice concerns over constitutional amendments for military expansion. Speakers emphasized the burden of U.S. military presence on local communities and the need to maintain Japan's pacifist constitution. The event reflected growing anxiety about Japan's militarization amid recent political changes.

The Philippines, Japan, and the U.S. conducted the 15th Multinational Maritime Cooperation Activity (MMCA) from February 20-26, 2026, in the West Philippine Sea, extending to the northern waters of the Batanes Islands. Chinese naval vessels tracked the participating ships, raising tensions in the area. The exercise included live-fire drills and various maritime operations, demonstrating enhanced cooperation among the three nations.

Tanaka TakashiSat Feb 28 2026Loading...

China's H-20 stealth bomber is anticipated to challenge U.S. air dominance in the Indo-Pacific, particularly targeting transit hubs like Guam. The People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) is developing the H-20 to enhance its regional military capabilities, with operational deployment expected in the next few years. This development signals a shift in military dynamics, as the U.S. assesses China's capabilities as primarily regional for now.

Viktor Belenko defected from the Soviet Air Force, flying a MiG-25 Foxbat to Hakodate, Japan, on September 9, 1976. His successful defection provided Western intelligence with critical insights into the aircraft's capabilities and limitations. The event marked a significant moment in Cold War aviation history, dispelling myths surrounding the MiG-25's performance.

China is rapidly increasing the production of the Chengdu J-20 stealth fighter, with over 300 aircraft currently in service and projections of up to 1,000 by the 2030s. The newly unveiled J-20S variant introduces a second crew member for enhanced electronic warfare and drone coordination. This development positions the J-20 as a significant threat to U.S. air superiority, particularly in maritime strike operations.

The Air Force announced a new policy on February 1, 2023, aimed at improving health care access for reservists and Air National Guardsmen injured on duty. However, veterans and advocates claim the policy fails to address significant barriers to obtaining benefits, including frequent reversals of In Line of Duty determinations. Approximately 130,000 Guardsmen and Reservists currently lack consistent health insurance, and the new guidance adds further complications to the benefits process.

The 2026 U.S. National Defense Strategy emphasizes deterrence against China, focusing on the Indo-Pacific region and a $10 billion budget for the Pacific Deterrence Initiative. It calls for a strong denial defense along the First Island Chain and encourages allies to assume greater defense responsibilities. The strategy reflects a shift in tone towards seeking a 'decent peace' with China while maintaining a commitment to regional security.

Marcus ChenFri Feb 27 2026Loading...

Singapore's defense minister announced the acquisition of three Gulfstream G550 maritime surveillance aircraft to enhance its maritime capabilities. This decision follows the earlier selection of the Boeing P-8A Poseidon aircraft. The G550-MSA will feature advanced surveillance technology and is part of a broader strategy to strengthen maritime security in the region.

DRASS delivered two Swimmer Delivery Vehicles to the Ministry of Defence of the Republic of Indonesia on 27 February 2026. This delivery marks a significant enhancement of the Indonesian Navy's underwater capabilities, featuring advanced autonomous systems and comprehensive training for operators. The successful execution of this delivery involved collaboration with partners CSG and Republik Palindo, emphasizing DRASS's commitment to modern naval solutions.

EDGE Group signed a Defence Industry Cooperation Framework with the Republic of Korea’s DAPA in Abu Dhabi on 27 February 2026. This agreement marks a significant milestone in defense cooperation, valued at approximately $35 billion, focusing on integrated air defense systems, advanced aircraft capabilities, and maritime power. The signing took place during a high-level visit from South Korea, highlighting the strong bilateral defense partnership.

Singapore's Ministry of Defence announced the acquisition of three Gulfstream G550 Maritime Surveillance Aircraft on February 27. This move aims to enhance the Republic of Singapore Air Force's early warning capabilities against maritime threats and improve surveillance coverage in surrounding waters. The new aircraft will complement the existing Boeing P-8A Maritime Patrol Aircraft, forming part of an integrated maritime security surveillance network.