Analysis & Reports

The Dalian Maritime Safety Administration issued a navigation warning prohibiting entry into certain areas of the Bohai Strait and Yellow Sea due to military operations scheduled from September 27 at 16:00 to October 11 at 16:00.

The People's Liberation Army (PLA) maintained a presence near Taiwan with 11 ships and 2 military aircraft from September 24 to 25, 2026. Taiwan's defense department recorded 210 military aircraft activities and 258 naval activities for the month. The PLA's strategy appears to focus on low-cost, persistent monitoring rather than high-profile military displays.

Li MinghuiSat Sep 26 2026Loading...

On May 15, 1972, the SR-71 Blackbird flew over Hanoi, North Vietnam, without being fired upon due to North Vietnamese fears that it was booby-trapped with a nuclear weapon. The aircraft lost power during the flight but managed to relight its engines and continue its mission. This incident highlights the complexities of air defense perceptions during the Vietnam War.

Japan's Sōryū-class submarines, operational since 2009, serve the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force to guard sea lanes and conduct surveillance. These advanced conventional submarines utilize air-independent propulsion technology, allowing them to remain submerged for extended periods. Equipped with sophisticated sonar systems and capable of launching Type 89 torpedoes and Harpoon missiles, they represent a significant leap in Japan's undersea warfare capabilities. The class is being gradually replaced by the newer Taigei-class submarines.

The U.S. Navy utilized the Lockheed P-3 Orion as a premier anti-submarine warfare platform, capable of conducting long-range surveillance and reconnaissance missions. The aircraft, which could remain airborne for up to 21 hours, was equipped with advanced weaponry, including nuclear capabilities. Over 650 P-3s were ordered by the Navy, and they played a crucial role in maritime operations during the Cold War. The last P-3 Orion was retired in June 2023.

South Korea inducted its first locally developed fighter jet, the KF-21, into the Republic of Korea Air Force on Tuesday at Yechon. The aircraft will be operated by the reestablished 156th Fighter Squadron. South Korea has ordered 40 KF-21s in the Block 1 configuration, with plans for a Block 2 variant to enhance capabilities. The KF-21 is equipped with advanced sensors and weapons, marking a significant milestone in the country's defense industry.

China is increasing military pressure on Taiwan by leveraging political discussions with the U.S. during the Xi-Trump summit on September 25, 2026. The People's Liberation Army is closely monitoring U.S. and Taiwanese military responses, particularly in the East China Sea. This includes heightened surveillance and coast guard activities, indicating a shift in operational focus towards Taiwan's eastern coast.

Marcus ChenFri Sep 25 2026Loading...

The People's Liberation Army (PLA) is developing new protective measures for tanks against drone threats and top-attack munitions, as revealed in early 2025. The GL-6 active protection system has been tested, demonstrating capabilities to counter aerial threats. The PLA is focusing on a layered defense strategy that integrates various technologies and tactics to enhance armored survivability on the battlefield.

The Zhuhai Maritime Safety Administration announced live ammunition firing exercises in the South China Sea on September 28 and 30, from 8:00 to 17:00. Access to the designated areas will be prohibited during these times.

The Liaoning aircraft carrier celebrated its 14th anniversary since commissioning on September 25, 2012. Key milestones include the successful takeoff and landing of the J-15 fighter jet on November 23, 2012, and plans for joint exercises with the Shandong carrier in October 2024.

China is constructing its next aircraft carrier in Dalian, expected to be 336 to 339 meters long, enhancing its naval capabilities. This development indicates a shift towards more extensive operations beyond the Taiwan Strait, with discussions on logistics and support for sustained deployments. Speculation exists regarding the potential for nuclear power, but no definitive evidence has been provided.

Li MinghuiFri Sep 25 2026Loading...

On September 20, 2026, the USS Canberra and P-8A Poseidon participated in a joint maritime cooperation exercise in Yokosuka, involving eight countries including Japan and the Philippines. The exercise included disaster response tabletop exercises and aimed to enhance interoperability among naval forces in the South China Sea. The focus was on establishing common procedures and information sharing among the participating nations.

Tanaka TakashiFri Sep 25 2026Loading...

The Chinese Navy conducted training exercises with the 054A frigate in the Japan Sea on August 22, 2026, focusing on anti-submarine warfare and operational readiness. This development indicates a shift in China's naval strategy, emphasizing both coastal defense and open sea operations. Japan is urged to adapt its defense strategies in response to the growing capabilities of the Chinese Navy.

Tanaka TakashiFri Sep 25 2026Loading...

Wang Tao has transitioned from a pilot to the deputy commander of the Fujian aircraft carrier, showcasing his extensive military experience. He has flown over 1,700 hours in various fighter jets and has played a significant role in training new pilots. The People's Liberation Army Navy is currently undergoing a transformation, with Wang Tao's leadership being pivotal in this process.

USS John F. Kennedy is being constructed to support the F-35C Lightning II, incorporating necessary modifications for its operation. The carrier is expected to enter service in March 2027, with capabilities surpassing those of the USS Gerald R. Ford, which was not built with the required systems. This shift in construction approach was mandated by Congress to ensure readiness for deployment with the F-35C.

The Philippines is conducting joint military exercises with ASEAN countries near Huangyan Island, which China claims as its territory. The Chinese Defense Ministry has condemned these actions, urging the Philippines to cease what it describes as provocations that threaten regional stability. China asserts its sovereignty over Huangyan Island and calls for constructive dialogue among regional nations.

Japan is accelerating its militarization under the guise of a 'survival crisis situation' while conducting military exercises with the U.S. and Australia. The Japanese Self-Defense Forces are involved in building missile and ammunition facilities in the southwestern islands. This development raises concerns about regional peace and stability.

China's Shenlong spaceplane successfully released and recaptured the same small satellite twice during its fourth mission, which began on February 6, 2026. This operation, conducted from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center, demonstrates China's advancing capabilities in close-range space operations. The mission included significant maneuvers over several months, indicating a shift towards operational testing in space.

Li MinghuiThu Sep 24 2026Loading...

The Philippines is conducting joint military exercises with ASEAN countries near Huangyan Island, which China claims as its territory. China has condemned these actions as provocations and violations of its sovereignty. The Chinese Defense Ministry has called for the Philippines to stop these exercises and fulfill its responsibilities as chair of the maritime security expert group.

On September 24, 2023, a collision occurred between a Chinese Coast Guard vessel and a Philippine government vessel near the Spratly Islands. The Chinese Ministry of Defense stated that the Philippine vessel provoked the incident by ignoring warnings and deliberately colliding with the Chinese vessel. China emphasized its commitment to defending its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights in the South China Sea.