Analysis & Reports

Austal Defence Australia and Damen Shipyards Group signed a contract on 20 February 2024 for the construction of eight Landing Ship Transport (LST) 100 vessels at Austal's Henderson shipyard in Western Australia. This initiative aims to enhance the Australian Army's operational capabilities as part of the 2024 National Defence Strategy. The vessels will support various military operations, including amphibious operations and logistics movements.

U.S. military leaders express concern over the rapid depletion of missile stockpiles due to ongoing operations in Iran, which could compromise military readiness in the Indo-Pacific region. The conflict may embolden China to take action against Taiwan, as U.S. defense capabilities are strained. Iran continues to launch missile attacks, and the U.S. is facing challenges in replenishing its military resources.

North Korea transported 33,000 containers of military supplies to Russia in support of its invasion of Ukraine as of March 2, 2026. This transfer marks the largest military supply exchange between the two nations, indicating a deepening political-military alliance. The supplies include artillery shells, missiles, and ammunition, which could significantly impact regional security dynamics in East Asia.

Tanaka TakashiMon Mar 02 2026Loading...

The U.S. military is implementing a new National Defense Strategy focused on deterrence by denial along the First Island Chain, enhancing military infrastructure, and increasing allied defense contributions. This strategy aims to counter China's military assertiveness while urging allies to significantly boost their defense spending. Trilateral military exercises were conducted in February 2026, signaling coordinated deterrence efforts. However, challenges remain due to China's expanding ISR capabilities and the need for credible U.S. commitments to regional allies.

Marcus ChenMon Mar 02 2026Loading...

The U.S. Air Force's delivery of F-15EX Eagle II fighters to Kadena Air Base in Okinawa has been delayed due to a labor strike at Boeing's St. Louis facility. The first aircraft are now expected to arrive in spring 2024, impacting the Air Force's modernization efforts. Despite the strike, deliveries to the Air National Guard in Portland resumed in December.

Australia faces a critical capability gap in its submarine force as U.S. and British shipyards struggle to meet demand for new submarines. Discussions are ongoing about leasing Los Angeles-class submarines from the U.S. or revisiting contracts with French manufacturers to enhance Australia's naval capabilities against China's expanding fleet. The AUKUS pact is currently failing to deliver the necessary submarines for Australia, which needs to act quickly to bolster its defense.

The Air Force announced a new policy on February 1, 2023, aimed at improving health care access for reservists and Air National Guardsmen injured on duty. However, veterans and advocates claim the policy fails to address significant barriers to obtaining benefits, including frequent reversals of In Line of Duty determinations. Approximately 130,000 Guardsmen and Reservists currently lack consistent health insurance, and the new guidance adds further complications to the benefits process.

DRASS delivered two Swimmer Delivery Vehicles to the Ministry of Defence of the Republic of Indonesia on 27 February 2026. This delivery marks a significant enhancement of the Indonesian Navy's underwater capabilities, featuring advanced autonomous systems and comprehensive training for operators. The successful execution of this delivery involved collaboration with partners CSG and Republik Palindo, emphasizing DRASS's commitment to modern naval solutions.

Hanwha Aerospace delivered the first AS9 self-propelled howitzers from its facility in Geelong, Australia, on February 26, 2024. This marks the beginning of a total delivery of 30 AS9 howitzers and 15 AS10 ammunition resupply vehicles, part of Australia's modernization efforts for long-range fire support. The H-ACE facility is designed to enhance local production capabilities and support defense needs across the Indo-Pacific region.

The New Zealand Defence Force signed a contract with SYOS for a package of autonomous uncrewed systems, enhancing its operational capabilities across land, sea, and air. This agreement includes multiple platforms such as SM300 boats and SA2 mini-copters, along with training and support services. The initiative aims to strengthen New Zealand's defense technology and reduce supply chain risks.

A patrol team from the Border Defense Unit of the Model Camp conducted border patrols at an altitude of 6000 meters in the Himalayas. The soldiers faced extreme weather conditions and altitude challenges while ensuring logistical support for their operations. Their experiences highlight the dedication and resilience of Chinese military personnel in maintaining border security.

China filed an application for 203,000 satellites, while SpaceX proposed a million-satellite network, leading to significant strain on the space supply chain. The US Defense Department is increasing its demand for satellites, which may impact its initiatives. Industry experts warn that companies might prioritize commercial contracts over military ones due to economic factors.

Soldiers of the PLA are stationed at high-altitude outposts in Tibet, specifically at Rinla Outpost, where they maintain border security and have seen significant improvements in living conditions. As of February 23, 2023, these soldiers are preparing for the New Year celebrations while managing the challenges of their environment. The report highlights their dedication and the logistical support provided to enhance their living standards.

India is solidifying its role as a strategic swing power in the Indo-Pacific following a defense agreement with the US. China is executing a cyber offensive against the Philippines, testing US responses to non-traditional aggression. The US is revolutionizing its defense industrial base with investments in 3D printing and AI to enhance military logistics and readiness.

Marcus ChenSun Feb 22 2026Loading...

USS George Washington was out of combat readiness for 2,117 days due to a lengthy Refueling and Complex Overhaul (RCOH) process, which faced significant delays and challenges. The overhaul cost $2.8 billion and involved 26 million man-hours of work, leading to mental health issues among the crew, including eleven suicides. The carrier is now stationed in Yokosuka, Japan, as the flagship for Carrier Strike Group 5.

Soldiers at the 5592 Observation Post in Tibet maintain their posts and engage in daily life despite extreme conditions. The outpost, the highest military station in the army, has improved its facilities significantly, including the addition of oxygen machines. Soldiers express pride in their service and commitment to their duties during the 2026 New Year celebrations.

Miao Xuejian, a logistics officer of the People's Liberation Army Joint Logistics Support Force, continues to manage military supplies and ammunition in a remote area of Liaoning Province as the Spring Festival approaches. He previously participated in the 2025 military parade, marking a significant achievement in his career. Miao emphasizes the importance of logistics in military operations and is committed to training new soldiers as he considers his future in the military.

A partnership was established between the Asymmetric MIA Accounting Group and the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao to recover the remains of American and Filipino soldiers from World War II. This initiative, which began in January 2023, aims to locate burial sites and provide military honors to the long-lost servicemen. The effort is supported by local authorities and historical knowledge, marking a significant opportunity for closure for the families involved.

Embraer and Northrop Grumman are collaborating to develop an autonomous boom system for the KC-390 tanker in Melbourne, Florida, with an investment of over $500 million. This system aims to enhance the KC-390's refueling capabilities for a wider range of aircraft, including U.S. Air Force models. The KC-390 is already in use by several countries and is compliant with U.S. defense regulations, indicating strong market potential.

Austal Defence Australia has been awarded a $4 billion contract to build eight Landing Craft Heavy vessels for the Australian military at Henderson, Western Australia. Construction is set to begin later this year, with the last vessel expected to be delivered in 2038. These vessels will significantly enhance Australia's amphibious capabilities and support humanitarian efforts.