Analysis & Reports

The People's Liberation Army (PLA) conducted military exercises simulating a blockade of Taiwan in the Taiwan Strait on January 1, 2025, marking its first incursion into Taiwan's 12-nautical-mile buffer zone. The exercises included maritime interdiction and air superiority operations, indicating a significant escalation in cross-Strait tensions. The US response has been measured, raising concerns about alliance credibility among regional partners.

Marcus ChenSun Feb 08 2026Loading...

China conducted large-scale military exercises around Taiwan from December 29-30, 2024, demonstrating its military capabilities and posing significant threats to Japan's security. On December 9, 2024, Chinese and Russian strategic bombers conducted joint patrols over the Miyako Strait, indicating a strategic partnership aimed at challenging U.S.-led regional order. Japan's Self-Defense Forces are under pressure to enhance their capabilities in response to these developments.

Tanaka TakashiSun Feb 08 2026Loading...

The People's Liberation Army (PLA) conducted a large-scale joint military exercise named 'Just Mission 2025' in the Taiwan Strait on December 29-30, 2025, marking its first entry into Taiwan's 12 nautical mile contiguous zone. This exercise involved multiple military branches, showcasing enhanced operational capabilities and signaling a shift in China's military posture towards Taiwan. The U.S. responded by urging restraint from Beijing, highlighting the strategic implications of the PLA's actions.

Li MinghuiSun Feb 08 2026Loading...

Commendation letters were delivered to military personnel and their families across various locations in China before the Spring Festival in 2025. The events aimed to promote military values and support for military families, with participation from local military and government officials. Sofia, a female soldier on the Liaoning ship, was recognized for her outstanding performance, and the ceremonies included health check-ups and support services for military families.

In early February 2023, the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force detected submarine sounds in the Tsushima Strait consistent with Chinese Type 039A submarines. The detection highlights challenges in Japan's anti-submarine warfare capabilities due to improved stealth of Chinese submarines and resource constraints within the JMSDF. The report emphasizes the need for modernization of Japan's underwater surveillance infrastructure and the urgency of addressing personnel shortages in submarine detection.

Tanaka TakashiSun Feb 08 2026Loading...

The People's Liberation Army (PLA) is investigating General Zhang Youxia for serious misconduct related to military training and corruption. The term 'big rat' has been used to describe the corruption affecting military funding and combat readiness. The report highlights systemic issues in training data accuracy and procurement processes, raising concerns about the PLA's operational readiness. The investigation's timing indicates a pressing need to address these issues before the 2027 military goals are met.

Li MinghuiSun Feb 08 2026Loading...

The Shanghai Armed Police Corps Chemical Defense Unit conducted training exercises focused on responding to biochemical weapon attacks. Troops quickly assembled and deployed to a simulated hazardous area, utilizing protective gear during the training. This exercise is part of their preparation for handling toxic and harmful substance leaks.

The August 1st Aerobatic Team of the Chinese Air Force performed at the Singapore Airshow, showcasing their aerial capabilities. The event took place recently in Singapore and was well-received by attendees.

Iran is developing asymmetric strategies to target U.S. aircraft carriers using swarm warfare tactics. This approach aims to create a perception of vulnerability in U.S. naval power, with potential political and economic repercussions from any damage inflicted. The Iranian military employs drones, fast-attack craft, and missiles to exert pressure on U.S. defenses in contested waters, particularly in the Gulf and Indo-Pacific regions.

The U.S. Navy is planning to develop the Trump-class battleships, including the USS Defiant, as part of a new National Defense Strategy aimed at enhancing Western Hemisphere defense. These battleships will feature advanced weaponry, including hypersonic missiles and a railgun, but face challenges such as high costs and labor shortages. Political support for the program may wane after 2028, raising concerns about its future viability.

Taiwan's first domestically built submarine, the Hai Kun-Class, successfully completed its maiden underwater sea trial off Kaohsiung on January 30, 2024. This milestone is part of Taiwan's initiative to develop an eight-sub fleet to modernize the Republic of China Navy, which currently operates an aging fleet. The submarine is expected to be equipped with advanced combat systems and torpedoes, enhancing Taiwan's military capabilities amid ongoing threats from mainland China.

The U.S. Army established a rotational presence in the Philippines in July 2025, consisting of approximately 50 personnel under U.S. Army Pacific. This move aims to build army-to-army partnerships and improve infrastructure with the Philippine Army. The formation of Task Force Philippines is intended to enhance military collaboration and deter Chinese claims in the South China Sea, marking a shift towards a more sustained U.S. military presence in the region.

The U.S. Army established a rotational presence in the Philippines in July 2025, consisting of approximately 50 personnel under U.S. Army Pacific. This move aims to enhance army-to-army partnerships and improve infrastructure with the Philippine Army. The formation of Task Force Philippines is intended to reinforce military collaboration and deter Chinese claims in the South China Sea, marking a shift towards a more sustained U.S. military presence in the region.

China is testing the J-20A Mighty Dragon fighter, which features advanced capabilities including the ability to command unmanned aircraft. Chengdu Aircraft Industry Group aims to have 1,000 operational airframes by 2030, posing a challenge to U.S. aerial dominance. The new WS-15 engine enhances the fighter's performance, and recent tests confirmed its operational capabilities in both manned and unmanned scenarios.

Japan's Ministry of Defense deployed F-35B fighter aircraft at Nyutabaru Air Base on February 7. The ceremony marked the introduction of this short takeoff and vertical landing variant, enhancing Japan's air defense capabilities. Parliamentary Vice-Minister of Defense Yoshida attended the event, which signifies a strategic expansion of Japan's F-35 fleet and operational options.

China has introduced the Attack-11, its first publicly disclosed stealth unmanned combat aircraft, designed for precision strikes and electronic suppression in high-risk airspace. The drone features a unique flying wing design that enhances radar stealth, allowing it to penetrate enemy air defense networks effectively. This development marks a significant advancement in China's military capabilities.

The People's Liberation Army Southern Theater Command conducted routine naval patrols in the South China Sea from February 2 to 6. This operation is a response to the Philippines' collaboration with external nations, which China views as destabilizing to regional peace. The Chinese military remains on high alert to protect national sovereignty and maritime interests.

Electro Optic Systems (EOS) opened a new facility in Singapore on 6 February 2026, aimed at manufacturing high energy laser systems for regional and international customers. This facility will support various international contracts, including a 100 kW-class laser weapon system for the Netherlands and another for South Korea. EOS intends to enhance supply chain resilience and localize production in response to customer demands.

China's aviation industry showcased 26 types of advanced military aircraft and equipment at the Singapore Airshow, including the J-35A stealth fighter, which attracted significant attention. The exhibition highlighted capabilities in air superiority, rapid support, and emergency rescue operations, with over 30% of the items being presented for the first time.

The August 1st Aerobatics Team of the Chinese Air Force showcased the J-10C fighter jet at international air shows in Malaysia, Dubai, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Thailand in 2023. The J-10C, a third-generation multi-role fighter, features advanced avionics and weapon systems, enhancing its operational capabilities. This transition from the J-10B to the J-10C reflects China's rapid advancements in military aviation.