Analysis & Reports

China and Russia conducted a joint naval exercise from July 6-13, 2026, in Qingdao, Shandong, involving multiple naval vessels and submarines. Following the exercise, both navies organized a joint maritime patrol in the Pacific Ocean. The exercise included various operational drills such as reconnaissance and anti-submarine warfare.

The SR-72 program by Lockheed Martin is facing significant delays and technical challenges, with no prototype publicly acknowledged. Originally expected to be operational by 2030, the program has not met its benchmarks, raising concerns about its feasibility and the complexity of its engine system. The U.S. military's struggles with hypersonic technology further complicate the SR-72's development.

The Marine Corps recently conducted coastal combat training, where troops trained under extreme heat and challenging sea conditions. They practiced water combat skills and emergency response, demonstrating resilience and teamwork. The training aimed to enhance their operational readiness and survival skills in maritime environments.

The People's Liberation Army Navy conducted training exercises with J-15T aircraft on July 14, 2023, focusing on carrier operations and ground personnel coordination. The exercises aimed to enhance the operational capabilities of the Fujian aircraft carrier, which is expected to be fully operational by 2026. The training included the use of YJ-83K anti-ship missiles, emphasizing the importance of standardizing complex carrier operations.

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Germany will send conventional troops to participate in French nuclear exercises for the first time this year. The Franco-German Defense and Security Council met in North Rhine-Westphalia on October 16-17, where leaders emphasized strengthening defense cooperation. Additionally, military exercises for the European volunteer coalition aiding Ukraine are planned for this fall, with Germany involved.

Farmers' groups protested in Tokyo on the 17th against the Japanese government's significant increase in defense spending and arms exports. They called for improvements in agricultural conditions and food security, arguing that true national security lies in ensuring citizens do not go hungry. Concerns were voiced about Japan's military direction and the implications of exporting military equipment.

The Army 953 Hospital and Army Medical University conducted a 23-day medical mission in Shigatse, Tibet, covering over 6000 kilometers to provide health services to soldiers. The team addressed various health issues, including insomnia and pulmonary hypertension, while also offering health education and emergency training. Psychological support was provided, and electronic health records were established for the soldiers.

Japan and Vietnam agreed to jointly develop fast landing craft during a meeting in Tokyo in July 2026. This collaboration aims to enhance rapid transport capabilities for defense and disaster response in the South China Sea. The project is significant for Japan's defense industry cooperation in the Indo-Pacific and reflects the sensitive political dynamics in the region.

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Russian forces conducted 19 cluster strikes targeting Ukrainian ports and military infrastructure on the 17th, while Ukrainian forces repelled attacks and shot down 1879 drones. Ukrainian forces also launched long-range strikes against Russian targets, including a successful attack on the Engels Air Base, damaging a Tu-95 strategic bomber. Both sides continue to engage in active military operations across multiple fronts.

On January 25, 1966, an SR-71 Blackbird disintegrated during a test flight at Mach 3.18 over New Mexico, resulting in the survival of pilot Bill Weaver and the death of reconnaissance systems specialist Jim Zwayer. The incident marked the only fatality in the aircraft's history, which had a combat record free of enemy action. The SR-71 was known for its speed and advanced technology, with 12 of the 32 built lost to accidents, not enemy engagement.

The Naval Aviation Force of the Southern Theater Command conducted live-fire attack training, successfully firing multiple artillery shells at targets. This exercise took place during the summer season.

On July 17, four drones were shot down near the US consulate in Erbil, Iraq. A drone attack on an ammunition depot in Sulaymaniyah caused explosions and a fire. Additionally, Iran launched missiles at Sulaymaniyah, killing at least nine members of a local armed group. The Kurdish counter-terrorism agency reported the drone interceptions, highlighting a series of recent drone attacks in Iraq.

Iranian military advisor Mohsen Rezaei stated that the U.S. has violated the terms of the U.S.-Iran memorandum, rendering it irrelevant. He warned that if U.S. attacks continue, Iran will escalate to a 'full offensive and destruction' phase, targeting U.S. bases and soldiers outside its borders. Rezaei also noted that U.S. military actions are being conducted through a hybrid warfare approach against Iranian infrastructure.

The U.S. conducted an airstrike on civilian infrastructure in Hormozgan Province on the 17th, resulting in the deaths of 8 Iranian civilians, including a disabled pair of brothers. Iran's Foreign Ministry condemned the attack as a war crime, asserting that the Iranian people are more united than ever in response to U.S. aggression.

The U.S. military conducted airstrikes on six bridges in Hurmuzgan Province, Iran, resulting in the deaths of three civilians. Iranian Foreign Minister Amir-Abdollahian condemned the strikes, asserting that the victims were innocent and emphasizing Iran's commitment to defend its territory. The strikes occurred in the early morning of the 17th.

The U.S. plans to send dozens of refueling aircraft to Israel, aiming to restore operational levels as tensions with Iran escalate. President Trump is considering broader military actions, including potential airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities. U.S. Central Command has already conducted multiple strikes against Iranian military targets in recent days.

U.S. Central Command conducted airstrikes against Iranian military targets in Chabahar on July 17, 2023. This operation, lasting 7 hours and 40 minutes, aimed to weaken Iran's military capabilities and follows six consecutive nights of similar actions. The strikes destroyed a surveillance tower linked to the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps.

Germany will send conventional troops to participate in French nuclear exercises for the first time, as announced by Chancellor Merz on July 17, 2023. This decision follows a meeting of the Franco-German Defense and Security Council in North Rhine-Westphalia. Both nations aim to strengthen defense cooperation, particularly in nuclear deterrence and military exercises involving Ukraine planned for the fall.

The Blue Angels performed a low flyover over a crowded beach in Pensacola, Florida, on Wednesday, which was later deemed 'unsafe' by Navy Capt. Adam Bryan. The jet blast from the maneuver caused beachgoers' chairs and umbrellas to be blown over. This incident occurred during the annual Red, White and Blue Air Show, which features the Blue Angels as a centerpiece.

The Blue Angels conducted a flyover over a crowded beach in Pensacola, Florida, which was deemed 'unsafe' by Navy Capt. Adam Bryan. The jet blast from the maneuver caused beach chairs and umbrellas to be blown over. This incident occurred during an airshow event, and despite safety concerns, senior military leaders shared celebratory posts about the flyover.