Analysis & Reports

The Chinese Navy's 052D destroyer Kaifeng conducted a live-fire exercise 180 km southwest of Okinotorishima in 2026, within Japan's EEZ in the Philippine Sea. The exercise involved the use of a 30mm close-in weapon system, rather than missiles, to assert operational control in the area. This event occurred alongside a Russian naval vessel, highlighting joint operations between China and Russia. Japan has raised safety concerns regarding the exercise.

Tanaka TakashiThu Jul 23 2026Loading...

During a recent Senate hearing in Washington D.C., Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth faced bipartisan criticism for his evasive responses regarding the U.S. strategy in the war on Iran. Senators highlighted a significant drop in public support for the war and questioned the administration's shifting justifications. Concerns were raised about the implications of the war on the U.S. defense budget and military readiness.

Private capital is increasingly integral to the UK defense industry, as discussed at the Farnborough International Airshow. Experts highlighted the need for a cultural shift to enhance investment in defense technology, addressing regulatory challenges and risk aversion among UK investors. NATO leaders are advocating for a stronger European industrial base to ensure adequate defense capabilities against threats, particularly from Russia.

U.S. Central Command conducted missile strikes against Iranian military targets in multiple locations, including Sirik County, Ahvaz, and Bushehr County, on July 22, 2023, at 17:30 EDT. Explosions were reported in these areas, indicating the strikes' impact.

The U.S. military conducted a missile strike at the Shalamcheh border crossing between Iran and Iraq on July 23, resulting in 2 fatalities.

Houthi forces announced a maritime blockade against Saudi Arabia on October 20, 2023, warning vessels to avoid Saudi ports. As of October 22, five oil tankers have altered their routes in the Red Sea, with some heading to the Suez Canal. The EU military operation in the region has issued warnings about increased risks for vessels linked to Israel, the U.S., and Saudi Arabia.

Houthi forces attacked two Saudi oil tankers in the Red Sea on July 23, 2023, using ballistic missiles and drones, which resulted in the vessels catching fire. The attack was part of a declared maritime blockade against Saudi Arabia, with Houthi officials warning of further military actions against Saudi targets.

Iran's Foreign Minister warned that any attack on Iranian infrastructure would elicit a decisive response. He emphasized that any party involved in such attacks would be considered a legitimate target. The Iranian Armed Forces also stated they would prevent oil exports from the region if the U.S. acted against Iran's infrastructure.

Ukraine struck 13 Russian shadow fleet vessels in the Sea of Azov and Black Sea on July 21-22, as part of a renewed effort to target sanctioned vessels. The Ukrainian Unmanned Systems Forces reported a total of 126 vessels hit in the Azov Sea and 70 in the Black Sea. This operation is part of Ukraine's strategy to disrupt Russia's maritime operations and energy exports.

The U.S. consulate in Erbil activated its air defense system and intercepted a drone flying overhead on the evening of the 22nd. This action was taken to ensure the safety of the consulate amid potential aerial threats.

Iran's Foreign Minister declared that any attack on Iranian infrastructure will elicit a strong response. He emphasized that those supporting such aggression will be seen as legitimate targets. Additionally, the commander of the IRGC Aerospace Force warned that attacks on Iranian bridges and power plants would disrupt power supplies to U.S. allies. U.S. President Trump also threatened to destroy Iranian infrastructure in response to any aggression.

Iranian armed forces warned that they would prevent oil exports from the Middle East and attack economic infrastructure if the U.S. acts against Iranian infrastructure. This statement was made on July 22, reflecting a significant military threat in response to U.S. actions.

The UAE Air Force showcased two aircraft during the 2026 Farnborough International Airshow in the United Kingdom. A British Royal Air Force CH-47 Chinook demonstrated its cargo capabilities, while the F-22 Raptor was featured with its weapons bay open. The event highlights various aerial demonstrations, attracting significant attention from attendees.

BAE Systems unveiled the Brontanax loyal wingman drone at the Farnborough International Airshow on its third day. This new drone represents a significant development in military technology and is part of the ongoing coverage by Breaking Defense.

The U.S. House of Representatives passed a $1.15 trillion defense authorization bill today, with a vote of 216 to 212. The bill includes provisions for firearms on military bases and reauthorizes the Defense Production Act. Senate Democrats have blocked their version of the defense policy bill, citing concerns over defense spending and the war with Iran. The Pentagon has requested a total defense budget of $1.5 trillion for fiscal year 2027.

U.S. lawmakers engaged in a simulation of a Taiwan crisis in Summer 2027, focusing on AI-enabled cyberattacks targeting transportation and logistics networks. The exercise revealed vulnerabilities in U.S. infrastructure and highlighted the potential for Chinese hackers to disrupt military deployments. Participants discussed strategies for defending critical networks and the implications of AI in cyber warfare.

The U.S. military conducted airstrikes against Iranian targets for the 11th consecutive night, escalating the conflict that has resulted in 18 U.S. soldiers dead and approximately 500 injured since February 28, 2023. Defense Secretary Hagel faced intense scrutiny in Congress over the rising costs of the war, which have reached $37.5 billion. President Trump threatened severe retaliation against Iran for any attacks in the Strait of Hormuz.

The U.S. Congress is considering a proposal to make hazing a specific charge under the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) as part of the National Defense Authorization Act for fiscal year 2027. This proposal aims to clarify the definition of hazing and establish it as a standalone offense, addressing concerns raised by past incidents of bullying and hazing in the military. The final version of the NDAA is expected to be voted on before October 1.

A U.S. soldier was reported missing and presumed dead following an attack on a military base in Jordan. Since late February, the Pentagon has confirmed 18 U.S. military deaths, with nearly 100 casualties reported since July. There are allegations of unreported attacks on U.S. forces, leading to injuries and equipment losses, raising public concerns about transparency in casualty reporting.

U.S. Central Command conducted airstrikes against Iranian military infrastructure on July 22, 2023, as tensions escalated in the Strait of Hormuz and Red Sea. The Houthis announced a blockade against Saudi shipping, leading to significant disruptions in commercial vessel traffic. Vessel tracking data indicated a sharp decline in crossings through both the Strait of Hormuz and Bab el-Mandeb Strait, with multiple tankers altering their routes due to security concerns.