Analysis & Reports
AI-assisted analysis of military-related information from public sources
Saha Expo 2026 – Aselsan widens the Tolun precision guided munitions family and expands its reach with the Fulmar 500-A radar and ASELFLIR-600 gimbal
Aselsan unveiled new precision guided munitions, including the Tolun-L, Tolun-F, and Tolun-EW, at the Istanbul exhibition in 2026. The Fulmar 500-A radar was also introduced, boasting a range of over 320 nautical miles and advanced surveillance capabilities. These systems enhance the operational effectiveness of various military platforms, including the F-16 and Akinci UAV.
Post-War Japan's Defense Turning Point — The First Overseas Launch of the Type 88 Anti-Ship Missile at Balikatan 2026 and a New Equation for Northeast Asian Security
On May 6, 2026, Japan launched two Type 88 Surface-to-Ship Missiles from Ilocos Norte, Philippines, sinking the former Philippine Navy corvette BRP Quezon. This marked Japan's first overseas missile launch since World War II, conducted during the multinational military exercise Balikatan 2026, which involved 17,000 troops from seven nations. The event signifies a pivotal shift in Japan's defense strategy under Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi.
Tanaka TakashiWed May 13 2026Loading...The UK will send warships, fighter jets, and other forces to participate in the escort operation in the Strait of Hormuz.
The UK is deploying naval and air assets, including Typhoon fighter jets and HMS Dragon destroyer, to the Strait of Hormuz for escort operations. This initiative, announced by the UK Ministry of Defence on May 12, 2023, aims to enhance the security of international shipping in the region. The UK has allocated £115 million for mine clearance and anti-drone systems as part of this defensive operation.
China's Ministry of Defense Confirms Full Equipping of Aircraft Carrier's Five Essential Components - The People's Navy's Aircraft Carrier Air Combat Capability Achieves Historic Leap
On May 9, 2026, the Chinese Ministry of Defense confirmed the full integration of five core carrier-based aircraft platforms into the People's Liberation Army Navy. This includes the J-35 stealth fighter, J-15T multi-role fighter, KJ-600 early warning aircraft, J-15DT electronic warfare aircraft, and Z-20F anti-submarine helicopter. This milestone enhances China's naval aviation capabilities and positions it as the second nation after the U.S. to fully develop and integrate a complete spectrum of carrier-based aircraft.
Li MinghuiWed May 13 2026Loading...
Firepower Assault! Forging Close-Combat Weapons for Chemical Defense
The 74th Group Army conducted live-fire training exercises in China, focusing on chemical defense and rocket firing. Soldiers practiced using flame throwers and rockets in simulated combat scenarios to enhance their operational capabilities. The training emphasized teamwork and precision in various firing positions.
Barikatan 2026: Japan Conducts Its First Overseas Missile Launch in History - A New Phase in Defense Strategy for the Southwestern Islands and Deterrence Against China in the South China Sea
On May 6, 2026, Japan's Ground Self-Defense Force launched two Type-88 SSM missiles, sinking the retired Philippine Navy vessel BRP Quezon off Paoay City during the Balikatan 2026 exercise. This event marked Japan's first overseas live-fire training and involved approximately 17,000 personnel from Japan, the U.S., the Philippines, and Canada. The exercise demonstrated Japan's evolving military role and commitment to regional security amid increasing tensions with China.
Tanaka TakashiWed May 13 2026Loading...Barikatan 2026: Japan Conducts Its First Overseas Missile Launch in History — A New Phase of Defense Strategy for the Southwestern Islands and Deterrence Against China in the South China Sea
On May 6, 2026, Japan's Ground Self-Defense Force launched two Type-88 SSM missiles from Cape Kiriri, sinking the retired Philippine Navy vessel BRP Quezon. This event marks Japan's first overseas missile launch and occurred during the Balikatan 2026 joint military exercise, highlighting a new phase in Japan's military role in regional defense.
Tanaka TakashiWed May 13 2026Loading...Eagle Squadron! Direct Coverage of J-20, J-10C and Other Aircraft Types in Combat Drills
The Chinese Air Force recently conducted realistic air combat exercises in the Gobi Desert, involving multiple aircraft types including the J-20, J-16, and J-10C. The exercises focused on electronic warfare and radar suppression, with no pre-planned scenarios, highlighting the importance of multi-aircraft coordination and system vulnerabilities.
In reversal, Hegseth now backs E-7 radar plane
Pentagon leaders requested the White House to restore funding for the E-7 Wedgetail radar plane, emphasizing its importance for future conflicts. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth highlighted a shift in mindset regarding military capabilities, moving away from reliance on satellites. The Air Force plans to purchase five E-7s alongside two prototypes, despite previous budget cuts. Former military leaders have stressed the need for upgrades to enhance battlespace awareness technology.
Drone boats make debut in Navy’s 30-year shipbuilding plan
The U.S. Navy is expanding its fleet under a 30-year shipbuilding plan, aiming to acquire 15 battleships and over 80 unmanned vessels by 2055. The plan includes a target of 450 vessels by 2031, with significant investments in new technologies and modular construction methods. The Navy's strategy emphasizes integrating unmanned systems and increasing production capacity across various shipyards.
Trump’s Golden Dome missile shield estimated to cost $1.2 trillion
The Trump administration's proposed Golden Dome missile defense system is estimated to cost $1.2 trillion over the next 20 years, according to the Congressional Budget Office. This estimate significantly exceeds the $185 billion allocated in the proposed fiscal 2027 defense budget. The system aims to protect the continental U.S., Alaska, and Hawaii from various missile threats but may not effectively counter large-scale attacks from adversaries like Russia or China.
Trump-class Battleship will get same nuclear reactor as Ford aircraft carrier
The U.S. Navy confirmed that the Trump-class battleship will be equipped with the same A1B nuclear reactor as the Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier. The Navy plans to have 15 of these battleships by 2056, with the first expected to be delivered in 2036. The total estimated cost for the design and development of the battleship is around $46 billion over the next five years, highlighting its significance for future naval operations in the Pacific.
Japanese Public Opposes Easing Restrictions on Exporting Lethal Weapons
Japan's government lifted the ban on lethal weapon exports, with Defense Minister Kono Taro promoting the sale of Self-Defense Force vessels to Southeast Asian nations. Public opinion is largely against this move, with 56.6% opposing lethal weapon exports. Protests have occurred in Tokyo against the government's attempts to modify the 'Three Non-Nuclear Principles' and the peace constitution.
Constantly Breaking Through the "Defensive Defense" Principle, "New Militarism" Gains Ground as a Threat, Japan Frequently Tests Offensive Missiles with Malicious Intent
Japan conducted live-fire exercises of the 88-type anti-ship missile, successfully hitting a target off the coast of Luzon Island during the 'Shoulder to Shoulder' multinational exercise from April 20 to May 8, 2023. Approximately 1400 personnel from the Japan Self-Defense Forces participated, utilizing various naval vessels and aircraft. This exercise highlights Japan's ongoing military activities and its intent to enhance defense cooperation with the Philippines.
The Army is testing medevac drones that lift injured soldiers from battlefields
The U.S. Army is testing the Flowcopter drone for medical evacuation during NATO exercises in Poland, involving 15,000 troops from eleven countries. This exercise aims to evaluate the drone's capability to safely transport casualties from combat zones to field hospitals. The Flowcopter can carry significant payloads and has been tested in previous military exercises, highlighting the Army's focus on integrating autonomous technologies for casualty evacuation.
Golden Dome-style missile shield could cost up to $1.2T over 20 years, CBO estimates
The Congressional Budget Office (CBO) estimated that a proposed national missile defense system could cost up to $1.2 trillion over 20 years. This system, similar to the Golden Dome project, would primarily engage threats from regional adversaries. The CBO highlighted that the most significant costs are associated with space-based interceptors, which account for 70% of acquisition expenses. U.S. officials are considering affordability in the development of this system.
Golden Dome could cost up to $1.2 trillion over 20 years, CBO estimates
The Congressional Budget Office estimates that the Golden Dome missile defense system could cost up to $1.2 trillion over 20 years. This estimate is based on a notional national missile defense architecture, as the Department of Defense has not provided specific details. Previous estimates for initial deployment costs ranged from $175 billion to $185 billion. The report is ongoing and will be updated as more information becomes available.
Golden Dome plan would cost $1.2 trillion, CBO finds
The U.S. Government's Golden Dome missile-defense system is projected to cost $1.2 trillion, far exceeding previous estimates. This system aims to enhance defensive capabilities but is not expected to be fully effective against large-scale missile attacks. Recent budget increases and expert analyses raise concerns about the feasibility and funding of space-based interceptors, prompting calls for Congress to reassess its priorities in missile defense funding.
Golden Dome would cost $1.2 trillion under current plans, CBO finds
The Congressional Budget Office estimates the Golden Dome missile-defense system will cost $1.2 trillion, far exceeding the administration's budget. This system aims to enhance defensive capabilities but is not foolproof against large-scale attacks. The budget has recently increased by $10 billion, raising concerns about the feasibility of space-based interceptors. Analysts suggest Congress should reassess funding priorities for missile defense systems.
British firm Rotron tests SkyLance long-range strike drone
Rotron Aerospace successfully fired its SkyLance long-range one-way effector in the United Kingdom, validating its propulsion and system performance. This drone is designed for precision strikes in GPS-denied environments and is positioned as a cost-effective solution for NATO's eastern flank. The successful demonstration follows Rotron's acquisition by Ondas Inc., which is committed to enhancing UK defense capabilities.
