Analysis & Reports

Airbus Defence and Space and ST Engineering signed two Memorandums of Understanding in Singapore on 2 February 2026 to develop advanced satellite capabilities and AI-powered geospatial analytics. The collaboration focuses on multi-static Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) technology to enhance imaging capabilities for defense and disaster response. Both companies aim to leverage their expertise to deliver innovative solutions for customers in Asia-Pacific and beyond.

China is supplying critical manufacturing equipment and components to Russia, enabling the production of weapons for its ongoing conflict in Ukraine. This includes machine tools and sensitive electronics essential for missile systems and drones. The supply chain has been obscured through third countries, with significant financial investments from China to support Russia's military capabilities.

The Air Force Aviation Brigade of the Northern Theater Command conducted realistic training exercises recently, focusing on restorative and foundational content. The training aimed to assess personnel's tactical status after intermittent flying and their continuous operational capability, enhancing the unit's readiness for all-time and all-weather missions.

The China Coast Guard has conducted extensive maritime law enforcement operations over the past five years, including 550,000 vessel operations and 6,000 aircraft missions in the South China Sea, East China Sea, and Yellow Sea. They have successfully resolved 2,800 smuggling cases and seized over 80 billion yuan in contraband. Additionally, the Coast Guard has rescued more than 7,200 individuals at sea, demonstrating their commitment to maritime security and sovereignty protection.

The U.S. Navy faces a critical decision regarding the USS Nimitz (CVN-68) as it approaches the end of its service life. On April 18, 2025, the carrier arrived in Guam, highlighting its ongoing role in U.S. naval operations. The Navy must choose between a costly life-extension overhaul or retiring the vessel, amid high demands for carrier presence and slower-than-expected Ford-class replacements.

A fourth prototype of the J-36 6th generation fighter was observed in flight on January 30, 2025, at the Chengdu Aerospace Corporation in China. This rapid development indicates significant investment and priority from the People's Liberation Army Air Force. The J-36 program is advancing faster than previous aircraft, with expectations for entry into service by 2030.

The Chinese Air Force August 1st Aerobatic Team completed a verification flight at Changi Airport, Singapore, on February 1, in preparation for the Singapore Airshow scheduled from February 3 to 8. The team, consisting of 6 J-10 fighter jets, performed various aerobatic maneuvers, marking their first appearance in Singapore since 2020.

The People's Liberation Army Southern Theater Command conducted combat readiness patrols around Huangyan Island on January 31, deploying H-6K bombers and fighter jets. This action responds to the Philippines' recent establishment of a military exercise zone that overlaps with Chinese territorial waters. The H-6K's advanced capabilities enhance its long-range strike and precision targeting abilities, reinforcing China's claims over the area.

The Chinese Coast Guard showcased its patrols in the Diaoyu Islands on February 1, 2025, marking the first public release of such footage. Over the past five years, the Coast Guard conducted 134 patrols, with 357 days of activity in 2025 alone. This initiative reflects China's ongoing efforts to assert its maritime rights and sovereignty in the region, amidst increasing tensions with neighboring countries.

The China Coast Guard released a promotional video titled 'Law Enforcement at Sea' to commemorate the fifth anniversary of the Coast Guard Law. The video highlights the agency's commitment to maritime law enforcement and safeguarding national sovereignty. This initiative aims to enhance public awareness and support for the Coast Guard's operations.

The battleship Musashi of the Imperial Japanese Navy sank in the Sibuyan Sea during the Battle of Leyte Gulf in 1944 after enduring extensive damage from U.S. carrier aircraft. The ship, which displaced 73,000 tons and was heavily armed, ultimately succumbed to the aerial assault, resulting in the loss of nearly half of its 2,399 crew members. The wreck was later discovered in 2015 by a team led by Paul Allen.

Russia sold military equipment and technology to China from the 1990s to early 2000s, significantly aiding China's military modernization. Key sales included fighter aircraft like the Su-27 and Su-30, as well as naval assets such as Kilo-class submarines. This relationship, initially beneficial for both nations, has become strategically awkward as China has increasingly developed its own military capabilities.

Houthi forces raised military alert on January 31, 2023, in Yemen due to escalating tensions from potential U.S. military intervention in Iran. They are inspecting missile launch systems along the Red Sea coast as a precautionary measure. A Houthi official warned that U.S. and Israeli military assets in the region would be targeted if conflict escalates.

The Southern Theater Command celebrated its achievements and readiness for national defense from 2016 to 2026. The report emphasizes the commitment to safeguarding the southern border of China and maintaining national security. It showcases the dedication and efforts of the command over the past decade.

China's People's Liberation Army Air Force is conducting flight tests of upgraded J-20A stealth fighters, which are nearing operational readiness. The new models feature WS-15 engines and advanced avionics, enhancing their long-range and electronic warfare capabilities. This modernization reflects China's growing confidence in its domestic aerospace technology and aims to close the gap with U.S. fifth-generation fighters.

Two J-35A stealth fighters from the People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) flew over the Shenyang Aircraft Corporation in Liaoning on January 7, 2024, indicating mature testing and the start of steady production. The J-35A, a land-based variant designed for air superiority and precision strike, is expected to achieve Initial Operating Capability later this year and aims for squadron fielding by 2027. This development marks a significant advancement in China's military aviation capabilities.

Chengdu Aircraft Industry Group conducted systematic test flights of multiple J-20 fighter jets in China, showcasing both manned and unmanned operations. These flights are part of a broader effort to evaluate the air combat system's capabilities, involving various aircraft types and operational scenarios. The J-20 is emerging as a crucial component in this new military operational framework.

The Chinese Air Force's August 1st Aerobatic Team is set to perform flight demonstrations over the sea at the Singapore Airshow from February 3-8. Seven J-10 fighter jets will participate, facing unique challenges such as strong sunlight reflection and the absence of landmarks for navigation during the aerial displays.

The People's Liberation Army Southern Theater Command conducted combat readiness patrols near Huangyan Island on January 31, involving H-6K bombers and fighter jets. This operation is a direct response to the Philippines' recent military exercises in the South China Sea, asserting China's sovereignty over the area. The patrols serve as a warning to the Philippines against further provocations.

The People's Liberation Army conducted its 8th combat readiness patrol to Huangyan Island on January 31, asserting China's territorial claims. This operation is part of ongoing efforts to secure the surrounding waters and airspace against provocations from other nations. The PLA aims to maintain national sovereignty and ensure stability in the South China Sea region.