Analysis & Reports

On January 27, seven J-10 aircraft from the August 1st Air Demonstration Team of the Chinese Air Force arrived at Changi Airport, Singapore, to participate in the 10th Singapore Airshow scheduled for February 3 to 8. This marks the team's 13th international appearance, following their last participation in February 2020.

The Southern Theater Command of the People's Liberation Army Navy conducted routine naval patrols in the South China Sea from January 25-26. The Chinese military criticized the Philippines for attempting to involve external nations in joint patrols, asserting that such actions disrupt regional peace and stability. The command emphasized its commitment to defending China's territorial sovereignty and maritime rights.

The USS Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group entered the Central Command area, with preparations for potential military action against Iran. Iran has declared its military readiness and warned of retaliation against U.S. bases if attacked. The U.S. has deployed additional F-15E fighters and transport aircraft to the region, indicating heightened tensions and military readiness on both sides.

The Chinese Air Force Bayi Aerobatic Team, consisting of 7 J-10 aircraft, departed from a southwestern airport on January 27, 2023, to participate in the 10th Singapore Airshow from February 3 to 8, 2023. They will perform flight demonstrations over the sea, showcasing their capabilities alongside aircraft from other nations. This team has a long history of international performances, promoting peace and friendship.

The U.S. Navy Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group has entered the Central Command area of responsibility in the Western Indian Ocean and is prepared to conduct military action against Iran. If ordered by the White House, the strike group could initiate operations within one to two days.

China's representative at the United Nations, Fu Cong, rebutted U.S. claims regarding illegal expansion in the South China Sea on January 26. He asserted China's undeniable sovereignty over the region and criticized the U.S. for its military activities and lack of legal standing under international law. Fu emphasized that the U.S. is provoking tensions and undermining regional stability.

China's permanent representative to the UN urged Japan to reflect on and correct its statements linking Taiwan to a 'crisis situation.' This occurred during a UN Security Council debate on January 26, where historical context was provided regarding Japan's actions in World War II and its obligations as a defeated nation.

China critiques the U.S. F-47 fighter jet, claiming it is already obsolete due to design flaws, particularly its canards which may compromise stealth. The Chinese J-36 and J-50 prototypes are reportedly already flying, with initial operational capability expected by the mid-2030s. The F-47, linked to Trump's presidency, faces significant technical and budget challenges, aiming for a combat radius of 1,000 nautical miles, which would surpass existing U.S. 5th-generation aircraft.

The U.S. Navy has ordered 24 Arleigh Burke Flight III destroyers, enhancing naval capabilities with advanced AN/SPY-6(V)1 radar and Aegis Baseline 10 combat systems. These destroyers, known for their multi-mission flexibility, are crucial for modern naval warfare and are currently under construction. The integration of these systems significantly improves ballistic missile defense and operational effectiveness in various maritime environments.

ST Engineering was awarded a contract by Singapore's Ministry of Defence in December 2025 for the production of next-generation infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs) based on the Terrex s5. The delivery of these vehicles is scheduled to begin in 2028, featuring advanced capabilities such as enhanced situational awareness and cyber security. ST Engineering will work with MINDEF to integrate additional capabilities into the new IFVs.

Contaminated drinking water issues affected the USS Nimitz and USS Abraham Lincoln, with JP-5 jet fuel and E. coli bacteria identified as the contaminants. The USS Nimitz experienced contamination that sickened 11 sailors, while the USS Abraham Lincoln faced E. coli due to a corroded vent pipe. These incidents reveal significant maintenance failures and communication breakdowns within the U.S. Navy's operations.

The first MC-55A Peregrine surveillance and electronic warfare jet arrived at RAAF Base Edinburgh, Australia, late last week. This aircraft, modified from the Gulfstream G550, is part of a four-aircraft acquisition aimed at enhancing Australia's surveillance capabilities. It will be operated by the RAAF's 10 Squadron and is expected to improve the country's ability to monitor its strategic interests and integrate with allied systems.

U.S. President Trump has threatened military action regarding Greenland, while Russia continues to gain ground in Ukraine. China views Taiwan as a potential target for military action, and Iran remains vulnerable yet capable of retaliation. Tensions between India and Pakistan persist following recent military skirmishes, indicating a precarious geopolitical landscape leading into 2026.

On January 26, 2026, three Chinese law enforcement boats launched from Xishuangbanna, Yunnan, as part of the 161st joint patrol and law enforcement operation on the Mekong River. This operation involved two Laotian and one Myanmar law enforcement boats, focusing on coordinated patrols to combat illegal activities in the region. A command meeting was held prior to the operation to align strategies among the participating nations.

The Y-20 transport aircraft, known as 'Fat Girl', has been operational since its first flight on January 26, 2013, significantly enhancing the People's Liberation Army Air Force's strategic airlift capabilities. It has participated in various military operations, including humanitarian missions and international airshows, showcasing its versatility and importance in modern military logistics. The Y-20 continues to evolve, with recent developments including the introduction of domestic engines and new variants.

ST Engineering was awarded a contract by the Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) in December 2025 for the production and supply of next generation Infantry Fighting Vehicles (IFVs) in Singapore. The IFVs, based on the Terrex s5 platform, are scheduled for delivery starting in 2028. This contract highlights ST Engineering's capabilities in advanced defense solutions.

Taiwan conducted its first dive tests of the domestically built Hai Kun submarine in January 2026 at Kaohsiung. This marks a significant step in Taiwan's indigenous submarine program, aimed at strengthening undersea deterrence. The full testing program is expected to conclude by mid-2026, with the submarine's handover to the navy targeted for June 2026, following previous technical setbacks.

The Japanese government is considering nationalizing ammunition production facilities to ensure stable supply during emergencies. This initiative, referred to as 'GOCO' (Government Owned, Contractor Operated), involves discussions with private companies for operational management. The move is prompted by concerns over ammunition shortages, particularly in light of the ongoing Ukraine conflict, and aims to restructure the defense industry for better preparedness.

The U.S. is preparing to deploy 48 F-35A stealth fighters to Misawa Air Base in Japan as part of a modernization plan for tactical aircraft. This deployment will replace 36 older F-16 aircraft, enhancing the U.S. military's deterrence capabilities in the Indo-Pacific region. Preparations for the deployment began in December 2023, with personnel from the 35th Fighter Wing receiving support equipment.

The Southern Theater Command Navy conducted multi-task naval training exercises in the South China Sea, successfully engaging and sinking an enemy drone. Personnel responded swiftly to a fire on a transport ship during the exercise, demonstrating effective coordination and operational readiness. The training aimed to enhance the overall capabilities of the naval forces involved.