Analysis & Reports

The People's Liberation Army released a promotional video titled '当红' (The Most Popular) to commemorate its 99th anniversary. The video aims to enhance the international image of the Chinese military and was produced by the Political Work Department of the Central Military Commission and Xinhua News Agency. It was launched simultaneously in China and abroad.

The Chinese Navy countered provocations from the Japanese Self-Defense Forces in recent naval engagements. An exclusive audio recording captured the Chinese Navy's efforts to correct Japanese misconceptions regarding militarism. The incident highlights ongoing tensions between China and Japan in maritime operations.

Over 4000 Taiwanese military volunteers are set to retire early by 2025, incurring significant penalties totaling 9.2 billion New Taiwan Dollars. The Taiwanese Ministry of National Defense spokesperson criticized the Democratic Progressive Party for its policies, suggesting that public dissatisfaction is leading to a decline in military commitment. The situation reflects broader political tensions regarding Taiwan's independence and defense strategies.

China's Ministry of Defense called on Japan to accelerate the disposal of abandoned World War II chemical weapons during a press conference on July 30. The ministry emphasized Japan's historical and legal responsibilities under the Chemical Weapons Convention, noting that Japan has missed multiple deadlines for disposal and that undiscovered weapons continue to threaten public safety in China.

Japan's Defense Minister made provocative statements on July 30 regarding the country's nuclear weapons policy, suggesting a potential revision of the 'Three Non-Nuclear Principles.' This has raised concerns about Japan's nuclear ambitions, as it is recognized as a nuclear threshold state with significant plutonium reserves. The report emphasizes the need for vigilance against any challenges to international nuclear non-proliferation efforts.

Chinese and Russian navies conducted joint naval patrols near the Senkaku Islands on July 30, asserting that the area is international waters, contrary to Japan's claims of it being part of its Exclusive Economic Zone. The Chinese Defense Ministry criticized Japan's characterization of a reef as an island, stating it does not meet international definitions.

On July 30, 2023, the Chinese Ministry of Defense reported that approximately 192,000 students applied to military academies, with over 17,500 being admitted. The average admission scores ranked in the top 6% across provinces, marking a historical high in both enrollment and applicant quality. The Ministry emphasized the importance of military academies in cultivating high-quality military personnel.

Lockheed Martin received a $53.86 billion contract from the U.S. government to accelerate production of PAC-3 Missile Segment Enhancement interceptors, aiming to triple production capacity by 2030. This contract, part of a broader investment strategy, will increase the workforce at the Camden, Arkansas facility by 50%. The funding addresses the urgent need for missile stockpiles amid rising demand from U.S. and allied forces.

Chinese Defense Minister visited Thailand and Brunei on July 30, 2023, to enhance security trust and defense cooperation. During the visit, he met with the Prime Minister of Thailand and the Sultan of Brunei, discussing military relations and regional issues. A new '2+2' strategic dialogue mechanism was established to strengthen cooperation in various fields, including humanitarian assistance and military training.

China and Thailand will conduct the 'Eagle Strike-2026' joint air force training exercise in Thailand in August 2026. The Chinese Air Force will deploy multiple aircraft and ground air defense forces to participate in the exercise alongside the Royal Thai Air Force, focusing on joint air defense and humanitarian rescue operations. This marks the ninth joint training event between the two nations' air forces.

The People's Liberation Army Navy is set to send two ships, Qi Jiguang and Kunlunshan, to Surabaya, Indonesia, in early August following an invitation from the Indonesian Navy. This visit reflects the growing naval cooperation between China and Indonesia, which has included joint exercises and ship visits.

Jordanian air defenses intercepted and shot down 5 Iranian missiles on July 30, 2026, without any reported casualties. This incident underscores the military readiness of Jordan amid escalating tensions in the region, particularly with recent U.S. strikes on Iranian targets. The interception reflects Jordan's role in a broader defense network against potential threats.

Ahmed Al-RashidThu Jul 30 2026Loading...

On October 30, 2023, Russian forces conducted large-scale missile and drone strikes across Ukraine, impacting regions including Dnipropetrovsk, Lviv, and Kyiv. The attacks resulted in at least 8 fatalities and numerous injuries, with extensive damage to residential and civilian infrastructure. Ukrainian air defense successfully intercepted over 260 drones and several cruise missiles during the assault. President Zelensky urged international partners to expedite the provision of missile defense systems to mitigate further casualties and destruction.

UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham announced on July 27, 2023, that the UK will share the intellectual property of the 'Stone Cloak' electronic jamming system with Ukraine during President Zelensky's visit. This system aims to complicate Russian air defense targeting of Ukrainian drones. The collaboration reflects the UK's commitment to support Ukraine militarily, with thousands of jamming systems already delivered and plans for future integration into UK weaponry.

The U.S. has paused military strikes against Iran for the third consecutive night as both nations halt attacks on each other's forces. This unexpected ceasefire is attributed to concerns over depleting U.S. weapon stockpiles, ongoing negotiations facilitated by Oman, and declining public support for the conflict in the U.S. The situation remains fluid as discussions continue.

U.S. and Japanese forces conducted the JXR26 joint exercise from July 20 to 24, 2026, simulating a response to a major earthquake and tsunami in the Kinki region. The exercise emphasized humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, with U.S. forces supporting Japan's command. Key areas of focus included medical support, logistics, and effective communication under crisis conditions.

Tanaka TakashiThu Jul 30 2026Loading...

The Jordanian Armed Forces intercepted and shot down 5 missiles launched from Iran on July 30. The operation was conducted effectively with no reported casualties. Jordan continues to maintain a high level of readiness to protect its airspace and national security.

Russian forces conducted a ballistic missile strike in Kryvyi Rih on July 30, resulting in 6 fatalities, including 2 children, and 8 injuries. The missile, identified as an Iskander-M, was launched from Voronezh Oblast and struck residential areas. Rescue operations are currently underway to assist the injured.

The 076-type Sichuan ship of the People's Liberation Army Navy is in its final testing phase, focusing on integrating UAVs into amphibious operations. It is equipped with an electromagnetic catapult and arrestor system, enhancing its capabilities. The ship is expected to enter service in 2026, with significant implications for military operations in the South China Sea and Western Pacific.

Li MinghuiThu Jul 30 2026Loading...

The J-15 carrier-based fighter jet experienced an engine failure during its test flight on November 23, 2012, while operating from the Liaoning aircraft carrier in China. The pilot successfully stopped the aircraft less than 5 meters from the edge of the deck, demonstrating exceptional control under pressure. This incident underscores the challenges faced by early test pilots in establishing naval aviation capabilities for China.