Analysis & Reports

China is developing the H-20 stealth bomber, which is anticipated to have intercontinental capabilities. However, U.S. Air Force General Stephen Davis has expressed skepticism about its current progress, labeling China's bomber force as primarily regional. The H-20 program was first acknowledged in 2016, and current capabilities rely on upgraded H-6 variants.

The European Union targeted ports in Georgia and Indonesia on February 10, 2026, as part of new sanctions against Russian oil. This marks the first time the EU has aimed sanctions at port infrastructure in third countries. Additionally, two Kyrgyz banks facilitating cryptocurrency services for Russia are included in the sanctions, reflecting the EU's frustration with the effectiveness of previous measures against Russia's military logistics.

Alexandra ReevesWed Feb 11 2026Loading...

The F-15EX Eagle II was deployed to Kadena Air Base in Okinawa, Japan, in July 2025, participating in the Resolute Force exercise alongside F-35s. This advanced fighter jet can perform 87 billion functions per second and carry 12 missiles, enhancing U.S. airpower in the Pacific against China's stealth fleets. The F-15EX is designed to serve as a critical force multiplier, supporting 5th-generation aircraft in air superiority operations.

The U.S. Navy is adapting its strategy due to shipbuilding limitations, implementing 'tailored force packages' instead of traditional carrier strike groups. This shift is a response to the inability to meet operational demands, as the Navy currently operates 11 aircraft carriers, unchanged since 2006. The reliance on unmanned systems is increasing, but their effectiveness in contested environments remains unproven. China's naval expansion further complicates U.S. strategic planning.

Marcus ChenWed Feb 11 2026Loading...

The CH YH-1000S hybrid drone completed its first flight in Chongqing on February 2, showcasing its 1200 kg payload capacity and 1500 km range. This drone is designed to enhance the People's Liberation Army's logistics capabilities, particularly in complex terrains, and addresses supply chain challenges in military operations. Its development involved collaboration with a leading electric vehicle company, indicating a shift towards integrating civilian technology into military applications.

Li MinghuiWed Feb 11 2026Loading...

SK Oceanplant signed a Master Ship Repair Agreement (MSRA) with the U.S. Navy on February 10, allowing the company to participate in maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) work for U.S. naval vessels. This agreement follows a successful port security assessment and positions SK Oceanplant to bid on U.S. Navy maintenance contracts. The company aims to enhance its role in the global defense industry and expand cooperation with allied navies.

South Korea's Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) conducted a preliminary industry briefing on February 11 to initiate the contractor selection process for the Korean Next-Generation Destroyer (KDDX). The program aims to enhance the Republic of Korea Navy's capabilities with domestically produced systems. DAPA emphasized the urgency of recovering the program's schedule to avoid gaps in naval operations.

Chinese Navy's J-35 stealth fighters aboard the Fujian aircraft carrier are experiencing operational restrictions due to engine performance issues. Analysts have raised concerns about the J-35's limited endurance, estimating it can only operate for seven minutes at a distance of 900 km from the carrier. The Fujian, equipped with an electromagnetic catapult system, represents a significant advancement in China's naval capabilities, yet the reliance on the older WS-21 engine poses challenges for sustained operations.

U.S. Air Force leaders are implementing Agile Combat Employment to enhance military readiness against potential conflicts in the Indo-Pacific region. This includes a hub-and-spoke approach to basing, emphasizing the importance of pre-positioned equipment and air mobility. Recent exercises have informed future strategies, with a focus on integrating capabilities with allies in Korea and Japan.

China's People's Liberation Army Navy has commissioned the 35th 052D destroyer, demonstrating a production capacity that averages nearly three ships per year since 2014. The latest ships, including the Ganzhi, feature advanced technologies and are produced across multiple shipyards, indicating a robust naval manufacturing capability. Future production may shift towards the 055 destroyer class, potentially impacting the overall naval balance in the region.

Li MinghuiWed Feb 11 2026Loading...

Japan is increasing its defense spending on U.S. weapons, with contracts worth approximately 13.867 trillion yen for FY 2023. However, significant delays in delivery and reliability issues have been reported, with over 11,400 million yen worth of weapons still undelivered five years after contracts were signed. The Japanese government plans to invest 43 trillion yen in defense from FY 2023 to FY 2027, despite ongoing procurement challenges.

On January 11, 1,400 Chinese fishing vessels formed a 320-kilometer rectangular formation in the East China Sea, indicating a military exercise rather than normal fishing activity. This mobilization disrupted shipping routes and suggests enhanced command and control capabilities of the Chinese Maritime Militia, potentially preparing for blockade scenarios against Taiwan.

Tanaka TakashiWed Feb 11 2026Loading...

Experts argue that the U.S. should halt the planned pullback of 10,000 Marines from Okinawa due to the increasing threat from China, particularly regarding Taiwan. They warn that relocating forces to Guam and other locations would undermine U.S. deterrence capabilities in the region. The Pentagon is considering adjustments to its military presence in response to China's military ambitions.

The B-1B Lancer remains a vital component of the U.S. Air Force, undergoing modernization to enhance its capabilities against advanced air defenses. It is capable of launching standoff munitions from significant distances, ensuring its relevance in modern warfare. The aircraft is stationed at various bases, including Dyess Air Force Base and Guam, and continues to play a crucial role in U.S. military operations.

USS Nimitz (CVN-68) remains a vital asset for the U.S. Navy amid potential conflicts with China or Russia, conducting routine operations in the Philippine Sea and Pacific Ocean. The carrier, commissioned over 50 years ago, is currently awaiting the combat-readiness of its replacement, USS John F. Kennedy. With a crew of approximately 3,500 and an air wing of 2,480, the Nimitz continues to play a significant role in U.S. naval power.

China unveiled the J-20S stealth fighter, enhancing its air superiority and maritime strike capabilities. The aircraft serves as a tactical command node, coordinating drone operations and performing electronic warfare. It reportedly overflew Taiwan undetected, showcasing its advanced stealth features and operational potential in high-intensity conflicts.

China showcased the J-35A stealth fighter at the February 2026 Singapore Airshow, promoting it as a low-cost alternative to Western fifth-generation jets. The People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) is actively pursuing international sales, with Pakistan being offered up to 40 J-35 aircraft. This move reflects China's intent to expand its defense market presence and enhance its military capabilities.

China's People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) is developing the Xi’an H-20 stealth bomber, which is expected to enhance its long-range airpower and nuclear deterrence capabilities. The bomber is designed to carry both nuclear and conventional munitions over a range exceeding 10,000 kilometers. However, there are currently no confirmed test flights or official specifications available for the aircraft.

PFC. Manuel Pérez Jr. engaged in combat operations to liberate Manila from Japanese forces between February 3 and March 14, 1945. He singlehandedly neutralized a fortified position at Fort William McKinley, killing 18 enemy soldiers. Pérez was shot by a sniper and died shortly after, receiving posthumous honors including the Medal of Honor. His actions contributed to the liberation efforts amidst significant civilian casualties.

Teledyne FLIR Defense introduced significant software upgrades to its Ranger radar systems, enhancing detection and tracking capabilities against unmanned aerial threats. The upgrades, applicable to the Ranger R8-3DX and Ranger R20SS, improve operational speed and situational awareness for military and civil security operations. These enhancements are designed to provide earlier warning and more reliable tracking of fast-moving aerial targets.