Analysis & Reports

The Navy 83 Fleet arrived in Surabaya, Indonesia, on August 2 for a four-day friendly visit. During this visit, naval personnel from both countries will engage in ship visits and cultural sports events. This visit aims to enhance mutual trust and promote practical cooperation in maritime affairs.

The People's Liberation Army (PLA) celebrated its 99th anniversary on August 1, 2023, showcasing its military capabilities, including the DF-5C intercontinental ballistic missile. The PLA has deployed over 50,000 personnel for various UN peacekeeping missions and has been actively involved in disaster response efforts in regions like Guangxi and Gansu. The anniversary highlighted the PLA's commitment to national defense and international peacekeeping.

The Northrop F-20 Tigershark program was canceled after failing to secure any orders despite its impressive capabilities, including Mach 2 speed and a weapons capacity exceeding 9,000 pounds. The program, which began in 1982, faced challenges from the F-16's market dominance and suffered from two fatal crashes during demonstrations. Ultimately, the lack of a U.S. launch customer and changing export policies led to its demise in December 1986.

In 2026, Tianjin commemorates the 90th anniversary of the Long March with a special program titled 'Memorable Years, National Memories.' The event honors veterans, including 93-year-old Wang Wenhua, who shares his experiences as a battlefield medic. The program is organized by local government and veteran associations to celebrate historical military contributions.

On July 31, 2023, Japan established the National Intelligence Bureau and National Intelligence Conference to reform its intelligence system. This move aims to centralize intelligence functions across government departments and enhance Japan's intelligence capabilities. The reforms are seen as a step towards increasing Japan's military readiness and reducing reliance on U.S. intelligence support.

Japan established the National Intelligence Agency on July 31, 2023, under Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, aiming to enhance intelligence capabilities and military preparedness. This move has raised concerns about the revival of militarism and the lack of oversight in intelligence operations, prompting public protests in Tokyo. Analysts warn that this could lead to a systematic push towards re-militarization and a challenge to post-war peace commitments.

Japan established the National Intelligence Agency on July 31 to consolidate intelligence efforts and address espionage threats. This move has raised concerns about a resurgence of militarism, as the agency is modeled after historical structures used during Japan's militaristic past. The government plans to enhance its intelligence capabilities, including potential foreign operations.

On the 99th anniversary of the People's Liberation Army, 12 exemplary military personnel were recognized for their contributions, including political instructors and special forces. This recognition highlights their dedication and commitment to their roles within the military, showcasing the honor and morale of the armed forces in China.

The People's Liberation Army is celebrating its 99th anniversary with the release of a promotional video titled 'Victory'. The event highlights the dedication of soldiers to their mission and the importance of national security in China.

The People's Liberation Army celebrated its 99th anniversary on August 1, highlighting its historical achievements and sacrifices in defending the nation. The report emphasizes the importance of a strong military for national independence and security, urging citizens to recognize and honor the army's contributions.

China aims to expand its aircraft carrier fleet to nine by 2035, with three currently in commission and one under construction in Dalian. The People's Liberation Army Navy is increasing its naval operations in the Indo-Pacific, evidenced by five carrier deployments in 2025. The expansion necessitates the development of air wings and logistical support to enhance operational capabilities.

The U.S. Air Force's F-22 Raptor fleet's mission-capable rate has dropped to 40.19 percent in fiscal 2024, prompting concerns over readiness. The Air Force has 184 F-22s, including 32 older Block 20 models that Congress has blocked from retirement. Upgrading these Block 20s is projected to cost at least $3.3 billion and take about 15 years, complicating the Air Force's operational capabilities amid increasing global demands.

The People's Liberation Army held a reception in Macau on July 31, 2023, to celebrate its 99th anniversary. Senior officials, including the Chief Executive of Macau and military leaders, attended the event, which included speeches and a photo exhibition commemorating the Red Army's Long March victory. The reception emphasized the PLA's role in maintaining stability in Macau and its commitment to the 'One Country, Two Systems' policy.

South Korea's KF-21 Boramae is entering mass production, with a reported offer of 16 aircraft to Indonesia for about $2 billion. The total cost per aircraft, including essential components, is estimated at $94 million. The first production jet is scheduled for operational service in September 2026, but Indonesia has yet to finalize the order.

On July 31, 2023, Japan established the National Intelligence Bureau, led by Prime Minister Sanna Takichi, to centralize intelligence functions across government departments. This move is part of a broader reform aimed at enhancing Japan's military capabilities and intelligence operations, raising concerns about increased government surveillance and power concentration. The bureau will initially consist of approximately 730 personnel.

Chinese military researchers are leveraging outputs from U.S. AI models to enhance their defense systems. This includes using techniques like model distillation to develop specialized AI models for applications in surveillance and cyber warfare. The People's Liberation Army is actively involved in this research, aiming to close the technological gap with the United States. Recent findings indicate a systematic approach to adapting Western AI reasoning for military use.

China is developing the H-20 stealth bomber, which is expected to enhance its military capabilities in the Pacific region. The People’s Liberation Army Air Force announced in March 2024 that the H-20 faces no bottlenecks and will be shown publicly soon. However, as of July 2026, there is no confirmed aircraft or first flight, raising concerns about its operational readiness and strategic implications for U.S. defenses.

The Southern Theater Command of the People's Liberation Army has produced a logo and a creative short film focused on Huangyan Island. This initiative involves a team of designers and video producers, highlighting the military's efforts in information operations.

The People's Liberation Army (PLA) was established on August 1, 1927, during an armed uprising in Nanchang, marking its 99th anniversary. The report highlights the significance of the Communist Party's leadership in the military's evolution and reflects on the PLA's historical struggles and victories over the past 99 years. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining strong leadership to ensure the military's cohesion and effectiveness.

China and Russia conducted joint naval patrols in the East China Sea, during which Japan's Self-Defense Forces referred to themselves as 'Navy.' In response, China issued warnings to Japan to be cautious with their terminology. The events occurred recently near the Senkaku Islands.