Analysis & Reports

Officer Zhao Hang rescued a father and son from drowning at Fengqi Bay in Xingcheng, Liaoning, during her vacation. She bravely entered the water to assist them, providing a life ring to the father and bringing the son to safety. The family expressed their gratitude in a letter, highlighting Zhao's dedication to her duty as a soldier.

The new generation Yinchuan ship, hull number 175, was commissioned into the People's Navy on July 12, 2016, succeeding the first generation ship that served as a command vessel during a significant mission in 1980. The Yinchuan ship has successfully completed various major tasks, including escort missions and joint exercises in the South Pacific, showcasing its advanced capabilities and operational readiness.

The Wuzhishan ship of the South China Sea Navy Fleet conducted training exercises aimed at enhancing combat readiness and operational capabilities. Crew members have adapted their training to include rapid response to threats and electronic warfare scenarios. This shift reflects a broader change in mindset, emphasizing the ship's role in both transport and combat operations.

North Korea launched multiple short-range ballistic missiles from Wonsan on September 12, 2026, as part of a joint firepower drill. This exercise involved ballistic and cruise missiles, attack drones, and large-caliber multiple rocket systems, testing the missile defense capabilities of Japan, the U.S., and South Korea following the Freedom Edge 2026 exercise. The drill highlighted North Korea's focus on integrated fire control systems.

Tanaka TakashiTue Sep 15 2026Loading...

The Chinese Navy's 48th escort fleet returned from the Gulf of Aden on September 14 and is set to visit Bangladesh, Myanmar, and Malaysia for professional exchanges and ship open days. This operation emphasizes the fleet's capability for long-term deployment and logistical support in various international ports, reflecting a shift towards more comprehensive maritime operations.

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The 82nd Group Army's Model Company of Strong Crossing Wu River conducted reconnaissance training and combat drills at the Wu River, commemorating the 90th anniversary of the Red Army's Long March. The unit reflects on its historical significance and the spirit of 'fighting fiercely and advancing courageously' as they prepare for future operations. The training involved 17 soldiers using bamboo rafts, emphasizing the legacy of their predecessors' bravery during the original crossing in January 1935.

The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force, Republic of Korea Navy, and United States Navy conducted the joint military exercise 'Freedom Edge 26' from September 7-11, 2026, in the waters east and south of Jeju Island. Six surface combatants participated, with a focus on decentralized air defense and real-time data sharing. Notably, no U.S. aircraft carriers were present for the second consecutive year, highlighting a shift in operational strategy. The exercise follows North Korea's announcement of a new guided missile destroyer.

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In late June 2026, all five in-service Astute-class submarines of the Royal Navy were tied up alongside in port, with one stripped of parts to maintain the others. This situation highlights significant logistical challenges and operational unavailability, as the fleet faced delays and budget issues over the years. The Royal Navy's attack submarine capability is currently compromised, with no submarines at sea during this period.

South Korea completed the development of the KF-21 Boramae in July 2026, with six prototypes flying nearly 1,600 sorties without accidents. The aircraft is entering mass production, with plans to deploy 120 units by 2032. The KF-21 features advanced systems, including AESA radar and a unique weapon loadout, positioning South Korea as a global defense leader.

Chinese Defense Minister General Dong Jun met with Laotian Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister General Khamleang in Beijing on October 14, 2023. They discussed enhancing military cooperation and strategic dialogue, emphasizing the importance of their bilateral relationship. The meeting followed the establishment of a '3+3' strategic dialogue mechanism earlier in June 2023.

USS San Diego (LPD 22) departed Naval Base Guam on September 12, 2026, after completing routine operations in the U.S. 7th Fleet area. The amphibious transport dock is designed to transport approximately 700 Marines and is forward-deployed to Sasebo, Japan, enhancing U.S. military readiness in the Indo-Pacific region. The ship's movements are part of standard Navy operations, with Guam serving as a key logistics hub.

Japan's Ground Self-Defense Force is conducting joint military exercises with the United States and Australia in Hokkaido and Kagoshima from September 8 to 24, featuring the U.S. 'Typhoon' medium-range missile system for the first time. The exercises are criticized as a step towards Japan's military expansion and a threat to regional stability.

China, Russia, and Mongolia conducted a joint military exercise named 'Border Cooperation-2026' near Manzhouli, Inner Mongolia, on September 2-3, 2023. The exercise focused on preventing reconnaissance and sabotage activities at the border, involving live drills on joint planning, searching, and capturing operations. This marks the second iteration of such exercises, reflecting a deepening military collaboration among the three countries.

China and Singapore conducted the 'Maritime Cooperation-2026' joint naval exercise in Zhanjiang, Guangdong from September 3 to 9, 2023. The exercise involved the Chinese missile frigate Dali and the Singaporean frigate Steadfast, featuring live-fire drills, maritime resupply, and joint search and rescue operations. This event marks the fifth joint exercise between the two nations' navies, aimed at enhancing cooperation and regional stability.

On September 14, 2023, the Ministry of National Defense of China announced the ongoing military training for students in over 20,000 schools, involving around 500,000 military instructors. This initiative aims to enhance students' national defense awareness and military skills, receiving positive feedback from society. The Ministry of Education and the Central Military Commission are working on improving training guidelines to adapt to modern needs.

The Chinese government, in collaboration with the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons, is conducting a training session on chemical weapons medical assistance and protection at the Air Force Medical University from September 14 to 18. The training involves 28 trainees from nearly 20 countries, focusing on diagnosing chemical weapon poisoning and organizing medical rescue efforts.

DroneShield announced a collaboration with AIM Defence to integrate the Fractl high-power laser into its counter-drone ecosystem in Sydney on 14 September 2026. This partnership aims to enhance the capabilities of defense organizations by providing an additional engagement option against unmanned threats. The Fractl system will be interoperable with DroneShield's existing technologies, allowing for coordinated responses in mission-critical environments.

The People's Liberation Army is modifying the Type 19 amphibious armored vehicle to integrate a laser weapon system aimed at countering drone threats in the Taiwan Strait. This development, reported on September 12, 2026, reflects the PLA's response to increasing drone activity and aims to enhance its amphibious operational capabilities. The new system includes additional sensors while retaining existing weaponry, indicating a layered defense strategy.

Li MinghuiMon Sep 14 2026Loading...

Japan's Ministry of Defense is considering the development of nuclear submarines (SSN) as part of its defense strategy for 2026, particularly in response to challenges posed by China. The discussions focus on enhancing operational capabilities and addressing limitations of current submarine classes. This consideration reflects a significant shift in Japan's military policy, emphasizing the need for improved stealth and operational range in the Western Pacific.

Tanaka TakashiMon Sep 14 2026Loading...

Xiao Rongji has been promoted in the People's Liberation Army and is pursuing further education at the Army Infantry Academy. He joined the military in 2022, inspired by his brother Xiao Siyuan, who died in a border conflict in 2020. Since enlisting, Xiao Rongji has earned multiple accolades and is dedicated to continuing his brother's legacy in service to the nation.