Analysis & Reports

The House of Representatives postponed a vote on the Take Care of America’s Veterans Act on Thursday, which seeks to change disability ratings for veterans. The bill aims to reduce future disability ratings for conditions like sleep apnea and tinnitus, potentially saving $57 billion over a decade. This legislative action has sparked significant debate among veterans service organizations, with some supporting the bill while others express concerns over potential cuts to benefits.

China has established a sustained Coast Guard presence east of Taiwan while conducting missile tests that reached 7,300 kilometers into the South Pacific. These actions are part of a strategy to normalize military operations in the region, prompting concerns from Taiwan, Japan, and the United States. The missile test, which likely passed over the Philippines, signals that a Taiwan contingency could extend beyond the Taiwan Strait.

Marcus ChenThu Jul 16 2026Loading...

Canada is expected to officially join the Global Combat Air Program (GCAP) as an observer on July 21 in London during the Farnborough International Airshow. This move aims to strengthen European defense ties while Canada assesses its long-term fighter jet options. As an observer, Canada will gain access to sensitive information and may contribute flight-simulation training technology, reflecting its strategic interest in closer defense partnerships with European nations.

The U.S. Army awarded Lockheed Martin a $439 million contract to produce ATACMS missiles and launchers for Taiwan, with the total expected to reach nearly $900 million. This deal, part of a larger arms package, aims to enhance Taiwan's long-range strike capabilities significantly. The contract is scheduled for completion by February 2031, reflecting the complexities of missile production. Taiwan is financing this through Foreign Military Sales, underscoring its commitment to strengthening its defense posture against potential threats from China.

Iran's military actions have led the U.S. to deplete its interceptor stockpiles, prompting concerns about a potential maritime quarantine by China against Taiwan. The U.S. Navy is facing challenges in maintaining readiness due to simultaneous conflicts and strategic commitments in the Gulf and Indo-Pacific regions. Taiwan's government is preparing for possible Chinese maritime actions, which could impact its energy and resource supplies.

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 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.

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.

A bill is set to be introduced to provide compensation to veterans involved in nuclear cleanup operations at Enewetak Atoll, Palomares, and Thule. The legislation aims to expand eligibility under the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act, addressing the health issues faced by these veterans. Less than 6,000 veterans are estimated to have participated in these operations, with many suffering from chronic diseases due to radiation exposure.

The Chinese Navy is expanding its recruitment and training for carrier-based pilots and support personnel as of July 13. This initiative is part of a strategic shift to enhance the operational capabilities of its aircraft carriers, particularly the Fujian, which will utilize advanced technologies. The focus is on creating a stable pipeline of trained personnel to support long-term naval operations.

Li MinghuiWed Jul 15 2026Loading...

Military personnel from an Air Force unit provided assistance to a 16-year-old boy named Lu Jiashuang in Liulan Village, Guangxi, who was affected by recent flooding. They offered emotional support and aid after learning about his difficult situation, as he was alone and struggling to clean his home. Lu expressed his gratitude and aspiration to join the military in the future, leading to a promise from the personnel to meet him in two years.

The U.S. Navy christened the future destroyer USS George M. Neal on July 11, 2026, in Pascagoula, Mississippi, honoring George Milton Neal for his courageous actions during a rescue mission in North Korea in 1951. Neal, one of the first Black aircrewmen in the Navy, helped rescue a downed Marine pilot and evaded capture for nine days after their helicopter was shot down. His legacy is commemorated through this new ship.

The U.S. House of Representatives passed the Major Non-NATO Ally Terror Threat Assessment Act on July 13, 2023, requiring a report on terrorist organizations in allied countries. This legislation aims to enhance oversight of security cooperation with nations like Egypt, Jordan, and Qatar, where terrorist groups operate. The Secretary of Homeland Security will provide assessments every two years to Congress, detailing the activities of these organizations and the effectiveness of partner governments in addressing them.

A Chinese research team conducted a simulation demonstrating the detection and potential destruction of the B-21 Raider bomber using advanced technology. The study highlights the challenges China faces in actually killing the bomber, despite improvements in detection capabilities. The B-21 is crucial to U.S. military strategy, designed to penetrate sophisticated air defenses, while China's own H-20 bomber is still under development.

Taiwan is adapting its defense posture by making targeted investments in digital infrastructure to enhance its military capabilities. This strategy reflects a proactive approach to securing its defense in the current geopolitical climate.

Canada signed agreements with Australia to acquire the Arctic Over-The-Horizon Radar (A-OTHR) to enhance NORAD's airspace surveillance capabilities. The deal, valued at US$1.75 billion, aims to fill significant gaps in radar coverage, allowing detection of airborne and surface targets. The A-OTHR is expected to achieve initial operational capability by December 2029, improving monitoring of potential threats, including from Russia.

Kongsberg reported a 31% revenue increase to NOK 10,389 million and a nearly 50% rise in operating profit to NOK 1,669 million in the second quarter of 2023. The company secured multiple contracts for its Joint Strike Missile and NASAMS air defense system, with Canada selecting the missile for its F-35A fleet. Kongsberg also expanded its focus on subsea infrastructure protection, reflecting growing interest in defense procurement.

In July 2026, the U.S. Navy submitted a Request for Information (RFI) to South Korean shipyards for the construction of destroyers and medium fleet replenishment ships. This move reflects a strategic shift in U.S. naval procurement, aiming to explore legal exceptions for utilizing allied shipyards. South Korean firms, including HD Hyundai and Hanwha Ocean, are involved in this initiative, which may enhance military cooperation between the U.S. and South Korea.

Tanaka TakashiMon Jul 13 2026Loading...

A 91-year-old veteran donated two historical photographs of hero Huang Jiguang to the Chinese People's Volunteer Army, sharing his memories of the Korean War during a video call with current soldiers. The unit plans to preserve the photographs in their military history museum, highlighting the importance of honoring past sacrifices and military heritage.

The U.S. Army published an assessment of China's Type 100 tank, highlighting its strengths and vulnerabilities, while concurrently developing the M1E3 Abrams, which shares similar features. The Type 100, operational in Beijing, is noted for its hybrid-electric drive and unmanned turret but faces challenges in battery endurance and repairability. The U.S. Army's findings serve as both an evaluation of the Chinese tank and a guide for its own tank development.