Analysis & Reports

The Southern Theater Command Air Force conducted its first flight training exercise after the Spring Festival, involving multiple aircraft and personnel. The training focused on operational readiness and included simulated combat scenarios. Personnel ensured safety and maintenance of aircraft before the flights, which were executed successfully in a controlled environment.

General Dan Caine challenged the U.S. National Defense Strategy, expressing concerns about military readiness against China. On February 27, 2026, the navies of the Philippines, United States, and Japan conducted joint training exercises in the South China Sea, emphasizing trilateral cooperation. The report highlights strategic disconnects in U.S. Indo-Pacific policy and the need for military and civilian leadership alignment on threat assessments.

Marcus ChenFri Feb 27 2026Loading...

U.S. Forces Korea conducted military training flights over waters west of the Korean Peninsula on February 18, 2023, prompting a response from Chinese aircraft and resulting in a brief aerial standoff. This incident highlighted coordination challenges between the U.S. and South Korea amid heightened regional tensions, raising concerns over notification procedures and operational communication. South Korea's defense leadership expressed protest to U.S. commanders following the event.

Hanwha Aerospace delivered the first AS9 self-propelled howitzers from its facility in Geelong, Australia, on February 26, 2024. This marks the beginning of a total delivery of 30 AS9 howitzers and 15 AS10 ammunition resupply vehicles, part of Australia's modernization efforts for long-range fire support. The H-ACE facility is designed to enhance local production capabilities and support defense needs across the Indo-Pacific region.

A new wheeled variant of South Korea’s K9 self-propelled howitzer has been spotted in South Korea and is set for field evaluations in the United States. The K9 MH, mounted on an 8×8 chassis, aims to enhance mobility and reduce logistical burdens. Evaluations will include live-fire demonstrations and compatibility tests, with final selection for the U.S. Army's future artillery program expected by late 2027.

The Southern Theater Command Air Force conducted flight training exercises involving multiple fighter jets. The training aimed to test tactical skills and combat readiness, and it was completed successfully with all aircraft landing safely. This event took place recently in the Southern Theater Command.

The People's Liberation Army (PLA) has undergone an unprecedented purge of over 101 senior military leaders since 2022, significantly impacting its command structure. This has resulted in a power vacuum within the Central Military Commission, now reduced to only two members. Reports from CSIS and IISS highlight serious deficiencies in military readiness and command capabilities, raising concerns about the PLA's ability to conduct complex operations, particularly regarding Taiwan.

Li MinghuiFri Feb 27 2026Loading...

Recent incidents have underscored the vulnerabilities of critical underwater infrastructure (CUI) in the Baltic Sea and off Taiwan, prompting NATO and the UK-led Joint Expeditionary Force to enhance protective measures. The Russian Navy's RFS Yantar is reportedly mapping subsea cables, raising concerns about potential future attacks. Technological advancements are being implemented to improve surveillance capabilities, while international cooperation is increasing to address these threats effectively.

DroneShield signed a Bilateral Collaborative Research Agreement with the Australian Department of Defence (DSTG) in Sydney on 26 February 2026 to enhance counter-drone technology capabilities. This partnership includes the establishment of a $13 million R&D Hub in Adelaide, focusing on data sharing and collaborative testing to address emerging drone threats. The collaboration aims to leverage both organizations' expertise to deliver innovative solutions for the Australian Defence Force.

Japan's Ministry of Defense confirmed the deployment of Type 03 medium-range surface-to-air missile systems on Yonaguni Island, with completion expected by March 2031. This move is part of Japan's strategy to enhance defense capabilities amid rising military assertiveness from China and North Korea. The deployment has sparked criticism from China, which views it as a threat to regional stability.

Tanaka TakashiFri Feb 27 2026Loading...

The Chinese People's Liberation Army Navy conducted routine patrols in the South China Sea from February 23 to 26. This action is a response to the Philippines' efforts to involve external nations in joint patrols, which China views as destabilizing to the region. The Southern Theater Command emphasized its commitment to defending national sovereignty and maintaining regional peace.

The Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) is experiencing a major anti-corruption purge initiated by Xi Jinping, resulting in the removal of at least 101 individuals, including high-ranking generals. This has led to a significant weakening of the Central Military Commission, with only two active leaders remaining. The purge prioritizes political loyalty over military expertise, creating serious deficiencies in military readiness and operational capability. Despite these internal challenges, China's defense spending and military activities continue to increase, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region.

Li MinghuiFri Feb 27 2026Loading...

On February 18, 2026, U.S. Forces Korea (USFK) deployed up to 10 F-16 fighter jets from Osan Air Base to conduct operations in international airspace over the Yellow Sea, prompting a rapid response from Chinese military aircraft. This incident signifies a strategic shift in U.S. military operations in East Asia, emphasizing a focus on deterring China while maintaining a strong defense posture in the region.

Tanaka TakashiFri Feb 27 2026Loading...

The Southern Theater Command of the People's Liberation Army conducted combat readiness patrols around Huangyan Island at the end of January 2026. H-6K bombers and fighter jets, along with Type 055 destroyers and Type 054A frigates, showcased China's commitment to defending its territorial sovereignty. This operation enhances battlefield awareness and rapid response capabilities against potential maritime crises.

Chinese Air Force H-6K bombers conducted long-range training exercises over 1000 kilometers beyond the First Island Chain, successfully reaching the Bashi Channel. During the exercise, they encountered foreign aircraft but maintained their course and completed all training objectives. This operation set new records for the distance flown by the Chinese Air Force.

Multiple J-16 fighter jets of the People's Liberation Army Air Force conducted integrated combat training in China at the start of the New Year. The training involved coordination with J-10 and J-20 aircraft, showcasing new combat formations and advanced data links for real-time situational sharing. This exercise emphasized the importance of multi-domain operations and innovative tactics in modern warfare.

The People's Liberation Army conducted combat readiness patrols around Huangyan Island at the end of January 2026, utilizing the domestically developed 054A missile frigate, known as the Red River. This operation highlights the advanced capabilities of the People's Navy, including air defense and anti-submarine warfare, marking a significant evolution in naval strategy over the past 70 years.

Several bombers from the Harbin Flight Academy conducted night navigation bombing training at an airport in Northeast China. The exercise involved multiple aircraft taking off in succession, marking a significant military training event.

In 2005, the HSwMS Gotland, a Swedish submarine, successfully simulated the sinking of the USS Ronald Reagan during a military exercise in the South China Sea. This event demonstrated the effectiveness of Air-Independent Propulsion technology, allowing the submarine to evade detection and engage the carrier. The exercise raised significant concerns within the U.S. Navy regarding the vulnerability of aircraft carriers to modern submarine threats, particularly as similar technologies have been adopted by China for its naval strategy.

Gerald Eddie Brown Jr., a former U.S. Air Force officer, was arrested in Jeffersonville, Indiana, for allegedly providing unauthorized military training to Chinese pilots. He began reworking his contracts in August 2023 and traveled to China in December 2023 to conduct training. Brown's actions have raised concerns about national security and the unauthorized transfer of military knowledge to the People's Liberation Army Air Force.