Analysis & Reports

The Chinese Coast Guard inspected 198 vessels off the eastern coast of Taiwan on June 24-25, 2026, as part of a blockade practice. This operation involved correcting violations on three ships and conducting hydrographic surveys. The patrol is seen as a test of China's authority over civilian maritime traffic, potentially altering the operational landscape for Taiwan.

Marcus ChenThu Jun 25 2026Loading...

Ukrainian forces destroyed three Russian explosive drone boats in the Black Sea on June 23 at 4:00 a.m. using Bayraktar TB2 combat drones. The operation involved coordinated actions by multiple units of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, marking a significant use of the drones in a direct attack role. The destroyed boats were equipped with Starlink satellite terminals, highlighting vulnerabilities in Russian maritime drone operations.

On June 25, 2023, the Chinese People's Liberation Army conducted live-fire exercises with the HQ-16F air defense missile system. Concurrently, the U.S. and Japan engaged in joint military exercises involving the deployment of the Intermediate-Range Missile System in Japan, which China condemned as a threat to regional security. The Chinese defense ministry emphasized the need for the U.S. and Japan to respect regional security concerns and avoid introducing offensive weapons.

On June 25, the Chinese Ministry of National Defense conducted law enforcement operations in the East Taiwan Sea, asserting its rights against Japan and the Philippines' exclusive economic zone negotiations. The spokesperson criticized these actions as violations of international law and emphasized that pressure from allied nations would be ineffective against China.

The Liaoning aircraft carrier group conducted long-range realistic combat training in the South China Sea and Western Pacific, facing provocations from Japanese naval vessels and aircraft. The Chinese Ministry of Defense condemned these actions, asserting that Japan's behavior is a deliberate provocation. The spokesperson urged Japan to cease its interference with China's normal training activities.

The Chinese aircraft carrier Fujian conducted routine training in the Taiwan Strait on June 25, while Taiwan's military closely monitored the situation during their five-day readiness exercise. Taiwan's defense minister confirmed they have a full grasp of the developments and will release important updates as necessary.

On June 25, Taiwan's defense department reported that mainland military aircraft entered its southwestern airspace and the western Pacific for long-range operations. The People's Liberation Army conducted these activities, and Taiwan released high-definition images of a drone circling the island. The defense ministry characterized the actions as a form of intimidation by pro-independence forces in Taiwan.

On June 25, Taiwan's defense department reported that mainland military aircraft entered its southwestern airspace and the western Pacific for long-range operations. The People's Liberation Army released high-definition images of a drone circling Taiwan, asserting that they are closely monitoring the situation. Taiwan's defense spokesperson criticized these actions as self-deception by pro-independence forces.

Rafael and SpearUAV launched the Iron Wasp counter-unmanned aerial system (C-UAS) at Eurosatory 2026. This interceptor drone is designed for vehicle integration and features a tube-launch system. It aims to provide defense for entire formations, equipped with advanced sensors for target detection. A live demonstration is scheduled for September 2026.

U.S. forces conducted airstrikes against al-Shabaab in Somalia between June 14 and June 19, 2026, with at least 68 strikes reported since the beginning of the year. General Christopher Donahue is set to leave his command of U.S. Army Europe and Africa, impacting operations in the region. The campaign increasingly relies on bases in Djibouti and Kenya, while the U.S. seeks to enhance its engagement with local Somali leaders.

Marie DuboisThu Jun 25 2026Loading...

RIMPAC 2023 commenced in Hawaii, featuring 30 to 35 experiments with unmanned systems and involving 30 countries, 31 surface ships, 5 submarines, and nearly 200 aircraft. Vice Adm. Jeffrey Jablon leads the exercise, which prioritizes safety and professionalism. The event will conclude with the sinking of two decommissioned U.S. Navy ships.

The Liaoning aircraft carrier group conducted training exercises in the Western Pacific in June 2023, with Japan tracking the group but failing to capture clear images. This indicates an increase in the operational capabilities of the Chinese military, as they are able to operate more flexibly and effectively in broader maritime areas. Japan's monitoring resources are being stretched as a result of these developments.

Li MinghuiThu Jun 25 2026Loading...

Gasoline production in Russia decreased by 25% from June 15 to June 21, 2025, revealing vulnerabilities in the Russian war effort. Fuel supply restrictions have been implemented across various regions, and the government is contemplating increasing fuel imports to address the crisis. The situation is exacerbated by Ukrainian drone strikes targeting oil refining facilities, affecting military logistics and operations.

Dmitri VolkovThu Jun 25 2026Loading...

Southern Theater Command Air Force conducted aerial refueling training with multiple aircraft. Pilots executed both daytime and nighttime operations, successfully completing the refueling maneuvers. This training enhances operational readiness and capabilities.

The People's Liberation Army Navy's 48th Escort Task Force will visit Seychelles in late June to participate in the 50th anniversary parade of the country's independence. This marks China's first involvement in such an event, aimed at strengthening bilateral relations and strategic trust between China and Seychelles.

Granta Autonomy unveiled the Black Wasp, an autonomous interceptor drone, in Lithuania on June 24, 2026. The drone is specifically designed to target and destroy Shahed-class attack drones, enhancing counter-drone capabilities. Weighing 4 kg, it can reach speeds of 320 km/h and operate at altitudes up to 7,000 m. Granta has been actively supplying Ukrainian forces with drone technology since the onset of the conflict in 2022.

On June 18, the Southern Theater Navy Rescue Team successfully completed a 300-meter saturation diving training exercise in the South China Sea. The operation involved four divers who endured extreme conditions, including high pressure and low temperatures. A welcoming ceremony was held to celebrate their return, highlighting the challenges faced during the training.

The Chinese Coast Guard inspected 198 vessels in Eastern Taiwan waters, asserting jurisdiction and prompting warnings from the U.S., U.K., France, and Germany about threats to regional stability. Taiwan reported that vessels were questioned about their routes, indicating a strategic move by China to establish control over maritime traffic. This situation raises concerns for Japan regarding the security of its sea lines of communication (SLOC).

Tanaka TakashiThu Jun 25 2026Loading...

The Chinese Navy's Liaoning aircraft carrier group conducted a training exercise in the Western Pacific, during which the Japanese Defense Ministry failed to capture any clear images. Despite multiple attempts to monitor the group, Japanese forces were hindered by the Liaoning's advanced electronic warfare systems, resulting in a lack of actionable intelligence. This exercise showcased the enhanced operational capabilities of the Chinese Navy, making it difficult for Japanese forces to maintain effective surveillance.

The Southern Theater Command Navy conducted high-intensity combat training in the South China Sea, focusing on multi-layered defense against unidentified aerial targets. Vessels engaged in real-time drills, enhancing tactical coordination without pre-set plans. The exercise aimed to improve the unit's operational capabilities and maintain a high state of combat readiness.