Analysis & Reports

AUKUS is structured as an industrial expansion pact to enhance submarine production capacity rather than transferring existing platforms. Australian funding is currently flowing into U.S. shipyard infrastructure, with the goal of establishing new production capabilities. The U.S. Navy and Royal Australian Navy are involved, with operations noted in Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia, as of March 31, 2025.

The 075 amphibious assault ship Anhu conducted joint amphibious landing operation training at sea, utilizing Z-8 helicopters for troop transport. Fully armed marine troops boarded the helicopters to execute landing operations. The training involved multiple military elements, including naval and air forces, and successfully captured key positions on the shore.

Embraer and Northrop Grumman are jointly developing advanced air mobility capabilities for the KC-390 Millennium aircraft, enhancing its tanking capabilities. This initiative, announced on February 20, 2026, aims to provide the U.S. Air Force and allied nations with greater operational autonomy and efficiency. The KC-390 is recognized for its superior performance and versatility in complex missions.

Embraer and Northrop Grumman are developing advanced air mobility capabilities and a next-generation air-refueling system for the U.S. Air Force and allied nations in Melbourne, Florida, as of February 20, 2026. This collaboration focuses on enhancing the KC-390 Millennium aircraft with features like an autonomous aerial refueling boom and improved situational awareness.

Japan purchased 20 Wave Glider SV6 unmanned surface vehicles from Liquid Robotics under a $25 million Foreign Military Sales program. The U.S. Air Force Test Center at Eglin Air Force Base authorized the acquisition to support operational testing activities. The first unit is scheduled for delivery within 360 days, with final delivery within 720 days. This procurement ensures compatibility with Japan's existing unmanned systems.

The U.S. Air Force awarded Boeing a $13 million contract to upgrade infrared countermeasure systems on C-17 Globemaster III aircraft operated by Canada and Australia. The upgrades will convert existing Block 10 systems to the newer Block 30 configuration, enhancing the aircraft's survivability against infrared-guided threats. Work will be performed in San Antonio, Texas, with completion expected by July 2030.

A fuel leak incident occurred at Gunsan Air Base in South Korea last month, resulting in over 40,000 liters of fuel being spilled. The 8th Fighter Wing reported that approximately 11,000 gallons leaked from a fighter jet fuel tank. Following the incident, measures were implemented to prevent contamination, and there was no immediate threat to local residents. The U.S. Air Force is currently investigating the cause of the leak.

On January 27, 2024, the August 1st Air Demonstration Team flew 7 J-10C aircraft to Singapore's Changi Airport, supported by 1 Y-20A tanker for aerial refueling. This operation suggests that the Y-20A's production has reached a critical threshold for operational readiness, as it successfully supported a high-profile mission. The Chinese Air Force is focusing on increasing the number of Y-20A tankers to enhance its aerial refueling capabilities.

Li MinghuiThu Feb 19 2026Loading...

USS George Washington underwent a six-year refueling and complex overhaul, resulting in significant crew turnover and mental health issues, including 11 suicides. The overhaul cost $2.8 billion and involved 26 million man-hours. The carrier is now stationed in Yokosuka, Japan, as part of the U.S. 7th Fleet, ready for operations in the region.

On February 17, 2026, seven J-10 aircraft from the People's Liberation Army Air Force flew non-stop from Singapore to China, supported by Y-20 tankers. The operation showcased the PLAAF's aerial refueling capabilities, which are currently limited by the number of operational tankers. The report highlights the strategic implications of these capabilities in potential conflict scenarios, particularly in the Taiwan Strait region.

Li MinghuiWed Feb 18 2026Loading...

The Pentagon is urging allies to enhance their military capabilities to deter China in the Indo-Pacific, emphasizing the need for increased defense spending and readiness. However, current allied naval capabilities are insufficient, and there are doubts about their commitment to a Taiwan crisis. The U.S. strategy relies on assumptions about allied readiness and industrial capacity that are not yet met.

Marcus ChenMon Feb 16 2026Loading...

China's Chengdu Aircraft Industry Group has achieved an annual production capacity of 120 J-20 stealth fighters, marking a significant advancement in military aircraft manufacturing. By 2030, China could have around 800 to 1000 J-20s if production increases. The shift from concealing to showcasing J-20 capabilities indicates a strategic change in military posture, emphasizing deterrence in the region.

Li MinghuiMon Feb 16 2026Loading...

On December 5, 2023, the U.S. Navy successfully recovered wreckage of an F/A-18F Super Hornet and an MH-60R Seahawk from 400 feet deep in the South China Sea. This operation highlighted the U.S. Navy's advanced underwater recovery capabilities, contrasting with China's limited resources in this area. The deployment of the Fujian aircraft carrier raises concerns about potential aircraft accidents and the need for effective recovery operations.

Li MinghuiMon Feb 16 2026Loading...

PLA troops conducted patrols and emergency rescue operations in Xinjiang, Nansha, and Tibet during the Spring Festival. They ensured the safety of civilians and maintained readiness against potential threats. The operations included snow removal efforts and communication support to safeguard national security.

The China Coast Guard deployed over 300 law enforcement vessels in the South China Sea during the Spring Festival to conduct patrols and law enforcement exercises. Personnel engaged in operations to maintain sovereignty and protect national maritime rights, utilizing drones for evidence collection. Despite being away from home, the Coast Guard members expressed their dedication to their mission and the importance of their role during the holiday season.

USS Connecticut (SSN-22) suffered major bow damage after colliding with an uncharted seamount in the South China Sea on October 2, 2021. The submarine is currently undergoing extensive repairs at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard and is expected to return to service in late 2026 or 2027. The command team was relieved following an investigation that deemed the incident preventable due to poor command climate.

Fincantieri plans to boost defense production capacity in Italy and increase revenue by 40% by 2030, driven by rising global defense spending. The company anticipates securing €50 billion in new orders, adding to its existing €60 billion backlog. Additionally, Fincantieri is expanding its undersea business and has signed contracts with foreign customers, including a €200 million deal with Saudi Arabia for torpedoes.

The CH YH-1000S hybrid drone completed its first flight in Chongqing on February 2, showcasing its 1200 kg payload capacity and 1500 km range. This drone is designed to enhance the People's Liberation Army's logistics capabilities, particularly in complex terrains, and addresses supply chain challenges in military operations. Its development involved collaboration with a leading electric vehicle company, indicating a shift towards integrating civilian technology into military applications.

Li MinghuiWed Feb 11 2026Loading...

The U.S. Navy faces significant munitions shortages, with Admiral Paparo warning that current stocks are insufficient for a high-intensity conflict in the Western Pacific. A recent wargame revealed that the U.S. could exhaust critical munitions within eight days of engaging in conflict over Taiwan. The ongoing military assistance to Ukraine and Israel further strains U.S. munitions inventories, highlighting a logistical crisis in the defense industrial base.

Marcus ChenTue Feb 10 2026Loading...

Japan is preparing for potential military involvement in a Taiwan contingency, recognizing that a conflict would directly impact its security. The Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) operates 36 destroyers but faces significant logistical challenges, including limited munitions and aging ships. Japan's defense spending is set to double by 2027, but operational readiness remains a concern as the JMSDF is not structured for sustained high-intensity combat far from home bases.

Marcus ChenSun Feb 08 2026Loading...