Analysis & Reports

On July 9, 2026, two F-15s from the Japan Air Self-Defense Force and two F-22s from the U.S. Air Force conducted a joint tactical training exercise over the East China Sea near Okinawa. This exercise highlights the operational readiness and cooperative capabilities of the Japan-U.S. alliance in response to increasing regional security challenges.

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Quantum Systems was selected by Japan’s Acquisition, Technology & Logistics Agency (ATLA) on 15 July 2026 to participate in the Counter-UAS Proof-of-Concept Program in Tokyo. This initiative aims to enhance the Japan Self-Defense Forces' capabilities with next-generation interceptor drones. The selection underscores the increasing international demand for interoperable counter-UAS technologies and strengthens defense cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region.

The Iranian military conducted an airstrike using attack drones against a U.S. military base in Azraq, Jordan, in response to previous U.S. attacks that resulted in Iranian casualties. The operation targeted radar stations, communication systems, and fuel storage facilities at the base, which is a key strategic center for U.S. forces in the region.

Jordan's air defense system intercepted 8 Iranian missiles targeting its territory on July 16. The operation was conducted to maintain national sovereignty and airspace security, with no reported casualties or damage. The Jordanian Armed Forces will continue to monitor airspace closely and respond to threats according to established rules of engagement.

The Ministry of National Defense of China has launched a series of recruitment videos focusing on medical examinations and political assessments for military conscription. Initial medical checks include evaluations of height, weight, and vision, while political assessments investigate candidates' motivations and family backgrounds. The process is managed under strict protocols to ensure data integrity and confidentiality, with results accessible through official channels.

The European Defence Agency reported that EU defense spending reached €418 billion in 2025, reflecting a 20% increase from 2024. Projected spending for 2026 is €454 billion, or 2.4% of GDP, with 23 Member States meeting the 2% GDP benchmark. The report highlights significant investments in defense capabilities in response to security challenges, including a 26% rise in defense equipment procurement.

Chinese coast guard vessels have been regularly operating east of Taiwan since May 2023, while the People's Liberation Army Navy conducted a submarine-launched ballistic missile test on July 6, 2023, reaching approximately 7300 kilometers. These actions represent a strategic combination of low-intensity maritime presence and high-intensity missile signaling in the Pacific region, raising concerns among neighboring countries about regional stability.

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The 73rd Group Army conducted naval combat shooting exercises in the Southeast Sea during the summer, facing challenging weather and sea conditions. The exercises involved live-fire shooting from amphibious armored vehicles, with troops demonstrating coordination and precision under pressure. Smoke grenades were deployed to obscure movements and suppress remaining targets.

The 72nd Group Army Aviation Brigade conducted live-fire tactical training exercises in an unknown sea area, involving multiple aircraft and helicopters. The operation included airstrikes against simulated enemy targets, with pilots employing countermeasures against radar detection. The training aimed to enhance the brigade's operational capabilities in complex battlefield environments, continuing through the night.

Yantai Maritime Safety Administration issued a navigation warning prohibiting entry into Laizhou Bay due to military activities scheduled from July 16 to 17.

On July 10, the Joint Support and Training Center of China and Cambodia conducted educational support activities at Yunrang Hongsen Primary School, including repairing facilities and donating uniforms. Students expressed gratitude for the donations and interest in Chinese culture. The center has been actively improving local educational conditions by providing computers and supplies, and plans to continue such initiatives to enhance bilateral relations.

Iran activated its air defense system in Tehran on July 16 in response to hostile threats. This action reflects the country's military readiness to counter perceived dangers.

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) announced plans to destroy U.S. offensive infrastructure in the region, with further actions expected soon. Concurrently, Kuwait's military reported intercepting Iranian drones, while Bahrain issued air raid alerts for its residents.

U.S. Central Command concluded a series of airstrikes against Iranian targets on July 15, 2023, at 21:00 EDT. The strikes targeted command centers, air defense positions, missile and drone facilities, and coastal surveillance sites, utilizing precision-guided munitions. Earlier that day, a 90-minute operation was conducted on Great Tumb Island, focusing on coastal defense facilities and cruise missile positions.

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps intercepted and destroyed an enemy MQ-9 drone over Andimeshk, Iran, on July 16. This action was confirmed through an official statement on social media by the IRGC.

On June 27, 2026, a Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force submarine sank the USS Juneau using a torpedo during the Valiant Shield 2026 exercise in the Philippine Sea. The USS Juneau, a retired amphibious transport dock, was targeted after sustaining damage from U.S. military forces. This event highlights the operational capabilities of the Japanese submarine fleet in a multi-domain military exercise.

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A regiment from the Xinjiang Military District conducted a live-fire exercise involving wheeled assault guns. The exercise effectively tested human-machine coordination and dynamic perception, enhancing the unit's rapid strike and withdrawal capabilities. This training aimed to improve overall combat effectiveness.

The 74th Group Army conducted a live-fire training exercise in China, testing its continuous combat capability. The exercise involved launching missiles that accurately hit targets, while anti-aircraft artillery established a dense fire network. Portable missiles were also used to intercept close-range targets.

The Kuwaiti Armed Forces are intercepting 'enemy' aerial targets using their air defense systems in Kuwait during the early morning of the 16th.

The U.S. military launched a series of artillery strikes against Iranian locations in Hormozgan, Sistan and Baluchestan, and Khuzestan provinces on July 15, 2023. The attacks targeted areas including Sirik, Abadan, and Qeshm Island, lasting several hours. U.S. Central Command confirmed the strikes via social media.