Analysis & Reports

On July 29, 2026, Japan's Maritime Self-Defense Force successfully launched a Tomahawk missile from the destroyer JS Chokai. This event marks a pivotal shift in Japan's military doctrine, allowing for offensive capabilities against distant targets. The launch reflects Japan's response to growing security concerns regarding China's military modernization and North Korea's missile threats.

USS West Virginia was sunk at Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, after sustaining multiple torpedo hits. The battleship was refloated and underwent reconstruction, returning to action in 1944. During the Battle of Surigao Strait on October 25, 1944, it engaged the Japanese battleship Yamashiro, firing 93 heavy shells. USS West Virginia was present for Japan's surrender on September 2, 1945, and was decommissioned on January 9, 1947.

The Rocket Force of the People's Liberation Army conducted missile launch exercises in the Taiwan Strait, demonstrating operational readiness and precision. Personnel emphasized the significance of their roles in ensuring timely and accurate missile launches. The exercises reflect ongoing military capabilities and strategic deterrence efforts.

The U.S. has significantly depleted its air defense missile stocks, with less than 1,000 Patriot missiles and 234 to 278 THAAD interceptors remaining as of July 30, 2026. This depletion impacts Gulf defense strategies, as regional nations rely on U.S. systems for protection against threats. The report highlights the challenges of sustainability and the need for Gulf states to reconsider their defense procurement strategies.

Ahmed Al-RashidMon Aug 03 2026Loading...

USS Nevada served in the U.S. Navy from 1916 to 1946, participating in World War I and World War II. The battleship was involved in significant operations, including the D-Day landings and the attack on Pearl Harbor, where it was the only battleship to move under its own power. After the war, Nevada was subjected to atomic bomb tests at Bikini Atoll, surviving both explosions before being decommissioned.

China launched a long-range ballistic missile from a nuclear-powered submarine into the Pacific, reaching 7,300 km, as part of routine training. Concurrently, Chinese coast guard ships patrolled east of Taiwan, and joint naval exercises with Russia were conducted near Qingdao. This series of military activities reflects a growing Chinese military presence in the Western Pacific, raising concerns among regional allies.

Marcus ChenMon Aug 03 2026Loading...

The People's Liberation Army (PLA) is focusing on modernization goals set for 2027, 2035, and 2049, emphasizing system integration over individual equipment. Key advancements include dual aircraft carrier operations and improvements in naval capabilities. The PLA aims to address historical weaknesses through the integration of unmanned systems and enhanced operational capabilities, with a long-term goal of becoming a world-class military by 2049.

Li MinghuiMon Aug 03 2026Loading...

The Rocket Force of China launched multiple types of missiles, including the Dongfeng Longjian, in 2015, highlighting its strategic deterrent capabilities. This transition marked a significant enhancement in military readiness and effective strike capabilities.

USS Idaho (BB-42) served in World War II, engaging in bombardment operations in locations such as Okinawa and supporting landings. The battleship was commissioned in 1919 and decommissioned in 1946 after 27 years of service. It earned seven battle stars for its contributions during the war, although it never engaged in direct combat with another battleship.

A rare display of multiple types of Dongfeng missiles was showcased by the Chinese Armed Forces, illustrating significant advancements in missile technology and strategic deterrence capabilities. This event reflects decades of evolution in military equipment and highlights China's technological prowess.

The Dongfeng missile system was showcased through immersive drone footage in China, highlighting its mobility and power. The presentation aimed to deliver a strong visual impact, emphasizing the capabilities of this advanced weapon system.

USS Pennsylvania survived the attack on Pearl Harbor while in Dry Dock No. 1 and later participated in World War II operations across the Pacific. The battleship was commissioned on June 12, 1916, and decommissioned on August 29, 1946, after surviving two nuclear tests. Equipped with twelve 14-inch guns, she earned eight battle stars for her service before being scuttled on February 10, 1948.

The U.S. Air Force is modernizing the B-1B Lancer to enhance its capabilities for hypersonic weapons and maintain operational readiness through 2037. This includes the development of a modular pylon for larger payloads and the return of retired aircraft to service. The B-1B has been actively involved in global military operations, demonstrating its strategic importance.

The People's Liberation Army (PLA) showcased significant military advancements on August 2, 2023, during its 99th anniversary. Key highlights included the deployment of a robotic wolf with a rocket launcher in landing operations and the nearing operational readiness of the Type 076 amphibious assault ship following successful electromagnetic catapult tests. The PLA's modernization efforts also featured the J-20 stealth fighter and large reconnaissance-strike UAVs, indicating a shift towards enhanced naval capabilities for long-range operations.

Taiwan is set to receive a $2 billion military aid package from the U.S. in Fiscal Year 2027, aimed at enhancing its defense capabilities against potential Chinese aggression. The package includes $1 billion for direct security assistance and $1 billion for replenishing U.S. military stocks. As China increases its military activities around Taiwan, the U.S. aid focuses on air defense, anti-ship weapons, and logistics, although concerns remain about the adequacy of these measures in a potential conflict.

Marcus ChenSun Aug 02 2026Loading...

USS Washington engaged the Japanese battleship Kirishima during the night of November 14-15, 1942, at Guadalcanal, firing 75 16-inch shells and 107 5-inch rounds. The battle resulted in at least nine confirmed hits on Kirishima, which lost steering and sank several hours later. Washington escaped without sustaining any hits to her hull, marking a significant naval victory for the U.S. Navy.

The People's Air Force has made significant advancements in strategic air operations, training personnel in extreme environments like the Karakoram and Gobi Desert. Key figures have developed skills in air defense and command, enhancing operational readiness. The report emphasizes the importance of these capabilities in modern warfare.

USS Saratoga (CV-60) served in multiple military operations from 1956 to 1994, including combat in Vietnam and Desert Storm. The carrier launched and recovered various aircraft, engaging enemy forces and delivering significant ordnance. After decommissioning, Saratoga was dismantled in 2019 following unsuccessful preservation efforts.

Saronic Technologies is conducting extensive on-water trials of its 180-foot Marauder unmanned surface vessel, which has a range of 5,400 nautical miles and a payload capacity of 150 metric tons. The U.S. Navy plans to utilize these vessels to enhance operational capabilities in contested maritime areas, particularly in response to the growing presence of the People's Liberation Army Navy. Saronic aims to produce up to 20 Marauders annually by the end of 2026, focusing on logistics and operational readiness.

Marcus ChenSun Aug 02 2026Loading...

The People's Liberation Army Navy conducted a test launch of the JL-3 submarine-launched missile on July 6, 2026, in the South China Sea. The missile reportedly achieved a flight distance of approximately 8000 kilometers, marking a significant advancement in China's underwater nuclear capabilities. This test is the first confirmed launch of a submarine-based missile since 1982 and is seen as a critical enhancement to China's nuclear deterrent system.

Li MinghuiSun Aug 02 2026Loading...