Analysis & Reports
AI-assisted analysis of military-related information from public sources
Ducking climate science is a danger to the US military. Congress must help.
Climate change is currently impacting military readiness and safety at U.S. military installations, including Tyndall and Offutt Air Force Bases. Wildfires, extreme heat, and flooding are threatening operations and infrastructure. Congress has allocated significant funds for emergency assistance and mandated the military to plan for climate change risks. The ongoing situation requires immediate attention to ensure the resilience of military capabilities against environmental challenges.
The largest military exercise in Southeast Asia, with 30 countries and 8,000 troops participating this year! "Golden Cobra" adds space and cyber operations for the first time.
The 'Cobra Gold 2026' multinational military exercise commenced on February 24, 2026, at Utapao Naval Air Base in Thailand, involving 30 countries and approximately 8000 troops. The exercise emphasizes joint operations across land, sea, air, space, and cyber domains, showcasing military capabilities. U.S. forces, including the Marine Corps, are participating with specialized units, while China is involved as an observer, focusing on humanitarian assistance.
The D Brief: Reports: Caine has concerns; USAF mobility chief; Senators seek boat-strike info; Arrest in China-training case; And a bit more.
Gen. Dan Caine raised concerns about the National Defense Strategy's focus on China, emphasizing the need for military preparedness. Gerald Brown, a former Air Force officer, was arrested in Jeffersonville, Indiana, for allegedly training Chinese military pilots. The Air Force's mobility chief is pushing for the replacement of outdated aircraft sooner than planned, highlighting modernization issues.
The U.S. Navy Is Missing 26 Seawolf-Class Nuclear Attack Submarines
The U.S. Navy currently operates only three Seawolf-class submarines, significantly limiting its operational capabilities. The USS Connecticut is out of commission, further straining the Navy's resources. This situation arises from a historical decision to reduce the Seawolf-class program from 29 to 3 submarines, leaving the Navy at a disadvantage as China expands its submarine fleet.
North Korea’s Demand: Kim Jong Un Wants Trump To Recognize the Hermit Kingdom as a Nuclear Weapons State
Kim Jong Un demands that the United States recognize North Korea as a nuclear weapons state during the Ninth Congress of the Workers’ Party of Korea in Pyongyang. He has officially terminated dialogue with South Korea, declaring it the 'most hostile entity.' The DPRK is estimated to possess 50 assembled nuclear warheads and is focused on expanding its nuclear capabilities.
Taiwan should create drone swarm ‘asymmetric hellscape’ to blunt Chinese invasion: Report
Taiwan is urged to develop a drone swarm strategy to deter a potential Chinese invasion, according to a report by the Center for a New American Security. The report outlines a multilayered maritime defense concept involving thousands of drones and conventional weapons to disrupt Chinese forces during their landing operations. It highlights significant challenges in Taiwan's military capabilities and calls for increased funding for domestic defense production.
1,000 Stealth Mighty Dragons: The Chilling Math of China’s J-20 Fighter 2030 Stealth Fleet Is a Problem for the U.S. Air Force
China is ramping up production of the Chengdu J-20 Mighty Dragon stealth fighter, aiming for 1,000 units by 2030 with an annual output of 120 airframes. The People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) is significantly increasing its fifth-generation fighter fleet, which is expected to surpass that of the U.S. Air Force. However, challenges remain with the reliability of Chinese jet engines compared to their U.S. counterparts.
New Zealand signs SYOS deal for multi-domain uncrewed systems
The New Zealand Defence Force signed a contract with SYOS for a package of autonomous uncrewed systems, enhancing its operational capabilities across land, sea, and air. This agreement includes multiple platforms such as SM300 boats and SA2 mini-copters, along with training and support services. The initiative aims to strengthen New Zealand's defense technology and reduce supply chain risks.
The Depth of Xi Jinping's Military Purge Exceeds Imagination: The Leadership Vacuum in the PLA and the Prospects for Modernization
Since 2022, the People's Liberation Army (PLA) has undergone a significant purge of 101 senior officers, reshaping its command structure. The purge peaked in 2025, with 15 generals officially removed, leading to a leadership vacuum. The Rocket Force was particularly affected, with all its commanders purged. Political loyalty is now prioritized over military experience in leadership selections, impacting the PLA's operational readiness.
Li MinghuiThu Feb 26 2026Loading...
The Largest Turning Point Since the War: The Comprehensive National Security Reform of the Takai Administration and a New Phase in the Japan-U.S. Alliance
Prime Minister Sanae Takichi announced comprehensive national security reforms on February 19, 2026, in response to escalating threats from China and North Korea. On February 20, U.S. Air Force and Japan Air Self-Defense Force conducted joint training exercises over the Japan Sea and East China Sea, involving 4 B-52 bombers and 3 F-3 fighter jets. Japan plans to increase its defense spending to 2% of GDP, reflecting a significant shift in its military policy.
Tanaka TakashiThu Feb 26 2026Loading...
"Wild Horse" Air-Cushion Landing Craft, "Steed" All-Terrain Vehicle... A Review of Weapons and Equipment Named After "Horse"
The People's Liberation Army showcases various military equipment named after horses, including the 726A hovercraft, JM8 all-terrain vehicle, and Tianma-1000 drone. These systems enhance China's amphibious and logistical capabilities, with the 726A capable of transporting heavy military vehicles and the Tianma-1000 designed for rapid deployment in diverse environments. The JM8 vehicle supports multiple military operations, including patrol and battlefield assistance.
Patrolling at an Altitude of 6000 Meters: Border Defense Soldiers Write the Height of a Soldier
A patrol team from the Border Defense Unit of the Model Camp conducted border patrols at an altitude of 6000 meters in the Himalayas. The soldiers faced extreme weather conditions and altitude challenges while ensuring logistical support for their operations. Their experiences highlight the dedication and resilience of Chinese military personnel in maintaining border security.
China's Navy YJ-20 Hypersonic Missile Completes Final Testing: Strategic Significance of Enhanced Combat Capability of Type 055 Destroyer
The People's Liberation Army Navy successfully launched the YJ-20 hypersonic anti-ship missile from the Type 055 destroyer Wuxi in late February 2026. This marks the first public test of the missile from a naval platform, demonstrating significant advancements in China's naval capabilities. The YJ-20 is designed to engage high-value maritime targets at ranges of 500-800 kilometers, enhancing China's anti-access/area denial capabilities in the region.
Li MinghuiThu Feb 26 2026Loading...
On-Site Coverage! The Chinese Coast Guard's New Year Training Film is Here
The China Coast Guard conducted high-intensity training exercises in the East China Sea and South China Sea shortly after the Spring Festival. Multiple aircraft and helicopters participated in coordinated operations, focusing on rapid response and effective maritime law enforcement. The exercises aimed to enhance the capabilities of the Coast Guard in safeguarding maritime territories.
Deepening of the Japan-China Diplomatic Crisis and a Turning Point in East Asian Security: Geopolitical Analysis Surrounding Prime Minister Takai's Remarks
China conducted military exercises in the Miyako Strait in December 2025, involving J-15 fighter jets, in response to Japan's Prime Minister's statements regarding Taiwan. Japan's Self-Defense Forces were involved in monitoring these activities, while the U.S. reinforced its commitment to Japan through joint military flights. Additionally, China imposed economic sanctions affecting tourism and cultural exchanges with Japan, escalating diplomatic tensions.
Tanaka TakashiThu Feb 26 2026Loading...
A Lifetime of Researching Nuclear Weapons: His Open Letter Calls Thousands of Students to Return Home
Zhu Guangya, a prominent figure in China's nuclear weapons development, wrote a public letter in 1949 urging Chinese students abroad to return to contribute to the nation's progress. This letter resonated widely among Chinese students and marked a significant moment in China's nuclear history. Zhu, who dedicated his life to nuclear research, passed away 15 years ago.
White Emperor Con Job: Why China’s Hypersonic “Space Fighter” Just Went Silent in 2026
China unveiled the Baidi (White Emperor) sixth-generation fighter mock-up at the 2024 Zhuhai Airshow, but the program has since gone silent with no further development. The J-20 and J-35A fighters are advancing, indicating real military capabilities, while the Baidi serves primarily as a propaganda tool to signal China's ambitions in the sixth-generation technology race.
China’s J-35 Stealth Fighter Engine “Heart Disease” Is Back
The Shenyang J-35 stealth fighter is reported to have critical engine issues, limiting its combat endurance to just 7 minutes at a 900 km radius. This aircraft, operating from the Fujian aircraft carrier, is still reliant on the older WS-21 engine instead of the expected WS-19. Despite a $40 billion investment in engine development, China remains significantly behind the U.S. in military aviation technology, raising concerns about the J-35's effectiveness against competitors like the F-35.
Australian Defence, DroneShield agree to advance counter-drone research
The Australian Department of Defence formalized a three-year agreement with DroneShield to enhance counter-drone capabilities. This initiative aims to bolster Australia's defense against drone threats, reflecting a commitment to improving military technology and readiness.
What is the Background of Japanese Entities Controlled by China?
China has imposed export controls on 20 Japanese entities, including Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, due to their involvement in enhancing Japan's military capabilities. This move reflects Japan's ongoing efforts to develop offensive weapons and amend its pacifist constitution. The Japanese government is also expanding defense equipment exports, indicating a shift towards a more militarized stance in response to regional security concerns.
