Analysis & Reports

Japan's Ministry of Defense plans to request a record 10 trillion yen budget for FY 2027, focusing on military expansion and modernization. This includes developing hypersonic missiles, unmanned submarines, and attack drones. The government is shifting away from its pacifist post-war stance, prompting domestic protests against militarization efforts.

Canada is debating the purchase of 88 F-35 fighter jets from the U.S., with a budget now set at C$27.7 billion. The Canadian Armed Forces are considering other options, including Gripen jets, amid ongoing discussions about U.S.-Canada relations. The CF-18 fleet is set to retire by 2032, and Ottawa has already approved funding for 16 F-35s.

China is developing the H-20 stealth bomber, which has not yet entered mass production or operational service as of early 2026. U.S. officials believe the H-20 will not match the capabilities of existing U.S. bombers like the B-2 Spirit and the upcoming B-21 Raider. The project has faced multiple delays and engineering challenges, with expectations for its debut pushed to the 2030s. The H-20 is intended to enhance China's long-range strike capabilities.

Japan's Ministry of Defense is set to develop submarine-launched hypersonic missiles and enhance unmanned underwater vehicle capabilities by 2027. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to strengthen its counterattack capabilities amid rising regional tensions. The defense budget is projected to reach around 10 trillion yen, reflecting a significant increase in military spending and a shift towards offensive military capabilities.

Hyundai Rotem and South Korea’s Agency for Defense Development are developing the K3 tank, a hydrogen-powered main battle tank prototype expected to replace the K2 Black Panther by 2040. The K3 features advanced weaponry, including a 130mm smoothbore main gun and an AI fire control system, along with stealth technology and modular composite armor. It aims to enhance battlefield capabilities with reduced thermal and acoustic signatures.

Two F-16V Block 70 fighters departed from the United States on August 17, heading to Taiwan, while 64 additional jets are delayed and may not arrive until 2028 or 2029. The Taiwanese Air Force is set to operate a total of 206 F-16Vs, but the slow production rate poses significant operational challenges. The delivery route also highlights logistical dependencies on U.S. support.

Marcus ChenWed Aug 19 2026Loading...

Japan and Australia agreed to conduct hypersonic missile tests in Australia over the next decade during a meeting in Canberra on August 18. The agreement includes the joint development of high-energy laser systems and the construction of eleven new ships for the Australian Navy based on the Mogami-class frigate. This marks a significant step in military cooperation between the two nations.

Tanaka TakashiWed Aug 19 2026Loading...

North Korea and Iran have claimed possession of hypersonic weapons, joining Russia and China in this capability. This development indicates a growing global interest and competition in advanced military technology.

USS Benfold (DDG 65) experienced a power loss for 96 hours while operating in the South China Sea in March 2022. This outage significantly impacted the destroyer's operational capabilities, affecting navigation, weapons systems, and crew conditions. The incident highlights the vulnerabilities of modern naval vessels to electrical failures, raising strategic concerns for the U.S. Navy.

Japan and Australia agreed on defense cooperation, including missile tests and joint development of hypersonic missiles and laser technology, during a meeting in Canberra on October 18, 2023. Japan plans to establish three new departments in its defense ministry by 2027 to enhance its military capabilities. The defense budget is projected to reach a historic high of 10 trillion yen, reflecting Japan's response to increasing regional threats.

China analyzes its missile capabilities to target U.S. Navy aircraft carriers in the South China Sea and near Taiwan. The People's Liberation Army has developed missiles like the DF-21D, DF-26, and DF-27, with ranges up to 8,000 kilometers. However, successfully sinking a carrier involves complex challenges, including detection, tracking, and overcoming defensive systems. As of now, these missiles have not been used in combat.

Unitree Robotics has rapidly dominated the quadruped robot market, selling over 18,000 units in 2022. The company's designs, based on U.S. military-funded research, have been showcased alongside the People's Liberation Army. The Pentagon has identified Unitree as a contributor to China's defense capabilities, raising concerns about U.S. competitiveness in advanced robotics.

Australia and Japan successfully conducted field trials of a co-developed high-energy laser system in Melbourne. The project, named Project Boobook, involves collaboration between Australia's Defence Science and Technology Group and Mitsubishi Electric. MEA is investing 70 million Australian dollars to establish new manufacturing facilities in Sydney. The laser system aims to enhance surveillance capabilities and will be integrated into land and naval platforms.

Australia and Japan successfully conducted field trials of the Boobook high-energy laser system at the Cultana Training Area and Edinburgh in South Australia. This project marks the first co-development between the two nations' defense industries, aimed at enhancing surveillance capabilities. Mitsubishi Electric Australia is investing $70 million to support large-scale manufacturing of the system, reflecting a growing defense partnership between Australia and Japan.

Japan and Australia have initiated discussions to allow Japan’s Self-Defense Forces to utilize Australian test ranges for long-range missile tests. This agreement, confirmed by defense ministers from both countries, aims to enhance Japan's counterstrike capabilities, including the development of the Type-12 missile and hypersonic weapons. This marks a significant step in Japan's military cooperation with Australia, following a similar agreement with the United States.

The Japan Ground Self-Defense Force is testing the HX-2 attack drone, developed by the German company Helsing, with procurement facilitated by Rakuten. The testing is set to conclude by the end of September, and the decision on its adoption will depend on the results. The HX-2 features advanced AI capabilities and a range of 100 kilometers, marking a significant development in Japan's defense procurement strategy.

Tanaka TakashiTue Aug 18 2026Loading...

The Chengdu J-36 stealth fighter prototypes have been spotted in flight from December 2024 to July 2026, showcasing various design changes. The aircraft features a tailless diamond-wing design, three engines, and is speculated to serve as a medium-range tactical aircraft or regional bomber. China is expediting the J-36 program, indicating a strong commitment to advancing its military aviation capabilities.

Japan's Taigei-class submarine, measuring 84 meters and displacing 3,000 tons surfaced, utilizes lithium-ion batteries for enhanced stealth and performance. It is designed for operations in the narrow seas of the First Island Chain and features advanced sonar technology. This submarine represents a significant advancement in Japan's undersea warfare capabilities, complementing US naval forces in regional defense.

Helsing is collaborating with Rakuten to finalize a deal for selling unmanned systems to Japan's army, with the Ground Self-Defense Forces currently testing the HX-2 strike drone. The field tests are scheduled to continue until the end of September. Rakuten's involvement aims to facilitate greater participation of startups in Japan's defense industry, addressing barriers to entry.

The People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) demonstrated the J-20 Mighty Dragon's capability to carry up to 14 air-to-air missiles in 'beast mode' during early 2025. This mode allows the aircraft to trade some stealth for increased firepower, similar to the U.S. F-35. The J-20 can carry PL-15 and PL-10 missiles, with ongoing efforts to enhance its internal weapons capacity.