Analysis & Reports

The People's Liberation Army (PLA) conducted a significant operation involving 29 aircraft and 7 ships around Taiwan from May 25 to May 26, 2026. A YY-20 tanker was observed supporting PLA fighters, indicating a shift in operational capabilities. This operation included a high crossing ratio of aircraft over the Taiwan Strait median line, complicating Taiwan's air defense response. Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense reported its response with combat air patrols and naval assets to monitor the situation.

Marcus ChenTue May 26 2026Loading...

Hanwha Aerospace announced a joint development program with the Korea AeroSpace Administration on May 26, 2026, to produce a 4,500-pound-class turbofan engine for unmanned aerial vehicles and Collaborative Combat Aircraft. The program will focus on advanced production methods and aims to meet growing global demand for UAV platforms. Hanwha plans to invest approximately KRW 750 billion in this initiative, which includes the development of a high-bypass turbofan engine designed for military and civil use.

Hanwha Aerospace is developing a 4,500-pound-class turbofan engine for unmanned combat aircraft in South Korea, targeting completion by 2029 with a $500 million investment. This engine will feature a starter-generator for enhanced power supply and aims to establish domestic capabilities in military aviation. The project reflects a strategic shift towards integrating autonomous systems in military operations.

On May 19, the People's Liberation Army Navy's 054B-class frigate 545 (Luohe) and 901-class supply ship (Hulun Lake) traversed the Miyako Strait into the Pacific Ocean. This marks the first confirmation of the 054B-class frigate by Japanese forces, highlighting China's ongoing efforts to enhance its naval operational capabilities. The operation underscores the importance of logistics and support in long-range naval engagements.

Li MinghuiTue May 26 2026Loading...

The 74th Group Army conducted a chemical reconnaissance and decontamination exercise in China, focusing on identifying chemical agents and decontaminating affected areas. Troops rapidly mobilized to a designated contaminated zone, employing various equipment for thorough decontamination of personnel and equipment. This exercise aimed to enhance the unit's emergency response and operational capabilities.

China has developed a new armored troop transport vehicle designed for high-altitude operations on the Tibetan Plateau. This vehicle, based on the FAW MV3 chassis, can carry 22 fully armed PLA infantry and is insulated for extreme cold. It addresses logistical challenges faced by the People's Liberation Army in transporting troops safely across harsh terrain. The vehicle's design emphasizes protection and mobility, reflecting the PLA's focus on maintaining combat readiness in difficult environments.

Thales delivered two GM403 radars to the Indonesian Air Force during an official ceremony in Jakarta on May 18, 2023. This delivery is part of a larger procurement of 13 radars aimed at enhancing Indonesia's air surveillance capabilities. The radars are integrated with Thales Air C4I systems to provide comprehensive situational awareness. The remaining 11 radars are scheduled for delivery within the next year.

Japan and the Philippines are set to begin formal negotiations for a security intelligence protection agreement from May 26-29, 2023, during President Marcos' visit to Japan. This agreement aims to establish a framework for sharing confidential security information between the two nations, both allies of the U.S. It will be the first of its kind for Japan with a Southeast Asian country, enhancing trilateral cooperation with the U.S.

The Fujian aircraft carrier has been stationed in Sanya, enhancing the operational capabilities of the People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN). The Liaoning is conducting training in the Western Pacific, while the Shandong operates in the South China Sea. This deployment reflects a strategic shift in China's naval operations, focusing on logistical support and multi-carrier operations.

Li MinghuiMon May 25 2026Loading...

U.S. military leaders emphasize the critical need for logistics and sustainment capabilities in the Pacific theater. They highlight the challenges posed by vast distances and the importance of pre-positioning equipment and repair facilities in locations like South Korea, Japan, and Australia. Recent discussions at military conferences stress that without forward positioning, timely response in conflicts will be severely hampered.

On May 20, Marines from the 3rd Battalion, 12th Marine Regiment fired two salvos of six reduced-range rockets from two HIMARS launchers at Camp Fuji, Japan. Approximately 40 to 50 Okinawa-based Marines participated in the exercise, which was coordinated with Japan's Ministry of Defense. This drill is part of efforts to validate long-range fires training and improve U.S. military readiness in response to potential threats in the region.

Marcus ChenSun May 24 2026Loading...

The People's Liberation Army (PLA) will conduct joint military training with Mongolia, named 'Steppe Partner 2026', in Inner Mongolia from late May to early June 2026. The exercise aims to enhance capabilities against illegal armed groups and improve regional security. It follows a similar training in 2024, indicating ongoing military collaboration between China and Mongolia.

Li MinghuiSun May 24 2026Loading...

The People's Armed Police Force has enhanced family visit services for military personnel in China by establishing a special task force to address travel difficulties. This initiative includes the provision of special vehicles, oxygen support, and medical personnel during family visits. New policies have been implemented to improve the overall experience for families visiting their loved ones in the military.

The People's Liberation Army (PLA) is actively optimizing training resources across multiple units in early summer. Various training exercises, including drone operations, are being conducted in the Eastern Theater Command and Northeast China. A mobile instructor talent pool has been established to address training needs, and units are collaborating to enhance training efficiency and effectiveness.

A certain naval brigade conducted a fuel supply training exercise at a naval base in the Eastern Theater Command. Personnel quickly responded to equipment malfunctions and performed emergency repairs during the operation. The exercise involved multiple hovercraft and included fuel quality testing before supply. The operation concluded successfully with all vessels refueled and departing the base.

The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force's JS Kaga will conduct F-35B training at Iwakuni from June 1-4, 2026. This training aims to prepare for deck operations and logistical support for the F-35B aircraft, as Japan plans to acquire a total of 42 units. The exercise is part of Japan's efforts to integrate F-35B capabilities into its naval operations, indicating a significant step towards enhanced military readiness in the Indo-Pacific region.

Tanaka TakashiSat May 23 2026Loading...

The Royal Thai Air Force has ordered two Airbus C295 tactical transport aircraft to enhance its defense capabilities. These aircraft will be operated by the 46th Wing Division from Phitsanulok air base, with the first delivery expected in the first half of 2029. This acquisition adds to the existing fleet of three C295s operated by the Royal Thai Army since 2016.

The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force's Kaga will dock at Iwakuni from June 1-4, 2024, to conduct training exercises for F-35B operations. This training aims to integrate local bases, municipalities, and U.S. Marine Corps procedures. Japan plans to acquire 42 F-35B aircraft, with ongoing logistical preparations for their operational use. The Kaga is also set to participate in RIMPAC 2026 in Hawaii, highlighting its role in regional defense capabilities.

Tanaka TakashiFri May 22 2026Loading...

Australia is commencing the life-extension upgrade of HMAS Farncomb, the first Collins-class submarine, to sustain its undersea capabilities. This upgrade is part of a US$11 billion investment in submarine sustainment over the next decade, ensuring the Collins fleet remains operational until at least 2040. The program is critical as Australia transitions to nuclear-powered submarines under AUKUS, with the first Virginia-class submarines expected in the early 2030s.

Marcus ChenThu May 21 2026Loading...

The Liberal Democratic Party of Japan is discussing the establishment of new defense spending targets, referencing South Korea and NATO benchmarks. They aim to complete a proposal by early June 2023, emphasizing the need for a budget to ensure national defense. This initiative reflects Japan's ongoing efforts to enhance its military capabilities in response to regional security concerns.