Analysis & Reports

Japan's Air Self-Defense Force is transitioning to the Japan Aerospace Self-Defense Force, establishing a new Space Operations Group with 880 personnel by 2026. This group will enhance Japan's satellite launch and monitoring capabilities, reflecting a strategic shift towards space as a military domain. Japan is also developing technologies to interfere with foreign satellites, indicating an intent to bolster its offensive capabilities in space.

Indonesia ordered 12 M-346F light fighters from Leonardo, with deliveries expected in 2030. This addition to the Indonesian Air Force's diverse fleet raises concerns about operational fragmentation and logistical challenges. The M-346F is intended to enhance training and combat capabilities, but it may not significantly change the air balance in the South China Sea.

Marcus ChenSat Jul 25 2026Loading...

On July 18, 2023, an ambush by JNIM and the Front for the Liberation of Azawad killed at least 50 Malian soldiers near Anefis, Gao, in Northern Mali. The U.S. is contemplating military strikes against JNIM as the situation in Mali becomes increasingly complex with Russian support for Malian forces and ongoing threats from armed groups. This incident highlights the challenges faced by the Malian military in securing key routes.

Marie DuboisSat Jul 25 2026Loading...

Lockheed Martin received a $23 million contract from the U.S. Navy to establish maintenance depots for F-35A jets in Finland, Switzerland, and South Korea. This initiative aims to enhance the countries' capabilities to maintain their stealth fighters domestically, reducing reliance on U.S. facilities. The work is expected to be completed by December 2028, with significant portions of the work occurring in Fort Worth, Texas, and Cheongju, South Korea.

China's aerospace industry is facing systemic bottlenecks that could hinder its ability to meet defense modernization goals from 2026 to 2030. The disconnect between national policy and corporate execution poses challenges for the Chinese People's Liberation Army in achieving sustainable operational capabilities for advanced military platforms. The report emphasizes the need for improved training and supply chain consistency to support military readiness.

Li MinghuiSat Jul 25 2026Loading...

On July 24, the Chinese Coast Guard drove away 7 Philippine government vessels, 3 coast guard ships, and 1 fishing vessel that intruded into the territorial waters of Huangyan Island. The Chinese forces issued warnings and utilized water cannons during the engagement. This incident follows a violent encounter on July 20, highlighting ongoing tensions in the South China Sea.

Thai Prime Minister Anutin met with Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun in Bangkok on July 24 to discuss enhancing defense cooperation and regional stability. Both leaders emphasized the importance of military collaboration and reaffirmed their commitment to the One China policy. They agreed to deepen strategic dialogue and cooperation between their armed forces.

Chinese coast guard personnel injured a Filipino sailor at Second Thomas Shoal on July 20, 2026, during a confrontation with the Philippine Navy. The incident involved the use of a baton and damage to a navy rubber boat. Following this, a Chinese vessel fired a water cannon at a Philippine fisheries vessel near Scarborough Shoal. The U.S. condemned China's actions and reaffirmed its defense commitments to the Philippines, highlighting the ongoing tensions in the region.

Marcus ChenFri Jul 24 2026Loading...

On July 24, the Chinese Coast Guard repelled Philippine vessels that illegally gathered in Chinese territorial waters at Scarborough Shoal, using water cannons after issuing warnings. The Philippines had organized 7 government vessels, 3 coast guard ships, and 1 fishing vessel for this action. China has warned the Philippines to stop its provocative actions, asserting its territorial sovereignty.

Indonesia's Air Force ordered 12 M-346F Block 20 light fighters from Leonardo, with deliveries expected in 2030. The country is also considering the procurement of AW149 medium helicopters for naval operations. This move reflects Indonesia's strategy to diversify its military capabilities, although interoperability challenges remain due to its varied fleet.

The 16th China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition will take place in Zhuhai from December 7 to 13, showcasing various new aerospace and defense technologies. This event marks the 30th anniversary of the exhibition and will attract numerous international aviation companies.

Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun visited Thailand on July 24, 2026, to discuss enhancing military cooperation with the Royal Thai Armed Forces. The talks emphasized joint training exercises and equipment procurement, reflecting a strategic partnership. China expressed support for Thailand in maintaining peace and resolving disputes with Cambodia, while Thailand seeks to balance its military relationships with both the U.S. and China.

Li MinghuiFri Jul 24 2026Loading...

On July 24, the Chinese Coast Guard responded to the Philippines' organization of 7 government vessels and 3 coast guard ships illegally gathering in waters under Chinese jurisdiction at Scarborough Shoal. Despite warnings, Philippine vessels intruded into Chinese territorial waters, prompting the Chinese Coast Guard to take necessary measures, including the use of water cannons, to drive them away. This incident follows a previous attack on Chinese personnel by the Philippines on July 20, escalating tensions in the South China Sea.

Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun met with Thai Defense Minister Anutn in Thailand on July 24. They discussed military cooperation and regional stability, agreeing to enhance relations under the guidance of their leaders. A welcome ceremony was held before the meeting, which included a review of the honor guard.

Japan's Defense Minister has called for discussions on nuclear weapons policy, indicating a potential shift from the country's longstanding 'Three Non-Nuclear Principles'. The government is considering introducing U.S. nuclear weapons and developing its own nuclear capabilities, including submarines and long-range missiles. This move poses significant implications for regional security and international order.

North Korea is expanding its nuclear arsenal, aiming for 300-500 nuclear warheads to enhance its deterrence capabilities against the U.S. and its allies. Kim Jong-un's strategy focuses on regime survival and military dominance, with missile tests conducted to showcase power. The U.S. has struggled to counter North Korea's nuclear ambitions, leading to concerns about the effectiveness of its deterrent strategies.

China Coast Guard vessel 3302 fired a water cannon at Philippine vessel BRP Datu Dumangsil near Scarborough Shoal on July 23, 2026. The incident involved multiple Chinese and Philippine vessels, with no injuries reported. The Philippine fisheries mission continued despite the encounter, highlighting the ongoing maritime tensions in the region. The US reaffirmed its defense commitments to the Philippines in response to the incident.

Marcus ChenThu Jul 23 2026Loading...

Rolls-Royce, IHI Corporation, and Avio Aero completed over 100 subscale component tests for the Global Combat Air Program's propulsion system as of July 20, 2023. The UK Ministry of Defence awarded BAE Systems a £708 million contract extension to support the program. The GCAP fighter jet is expected to enter service by 2035, integrating advanced capabilities for long-range operations.

On July 23, the Chinese Coast Guard used water cannons to drive away two Philippine government vessels, 3012 and 3018, that intruded into Chinese territorial waters near Scarborough Shoal. This incident occurred just three days after a similar conflict involving the Philippines at the Second Thomas Shoal. The Chinese authorities stated that their actions were necessary and lawful in response to the Philippine vessels' provocations.

The People's Liberation Army Navy is sending a naval task force, consisting of the Qijiguang-class frigate and Kunlunshan-class landing ship, to visit Brunei at the end of July. This visit is in response to an invitation from the Brunei Navy and coincides with the 35th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries, aiming to enhance cooperation and friendship.