Analysis & Reports
AI-assisted analysis of military-related information from public sources
Video: H-6K and Tu-95 Fly Together Over the Miyako Strait, Experts Explain Details of Sino-Russian Patrol Formation
On October 27, 2023, the Chinese and Russian air forces conducted their 11th joint strategic air patrol, flying through the Miyako Strait, Sea of Japan, East China Sea, and Western Pacific. The operation involved multiple aircraft, including H-6K bombers and Tu-95s, demonstrating their collaborative military capabilities. The KJ-500A acted as the command center, coordinating the mission.
China-Russia Joint Aerial Patrol: PLA H-6K and Y-20 Enter Western Pacific Training Chain
On June 27, the Chinese People's Liberation Army Air Force and the Russian Air Force conducted their 11th joint air strategic patrol across the Sea of Japan, East China Sea, and Western Pacific. The operation involved multiple aircraft types, including H-6K bombers and Y-20 tankers, showcasing enhanced military cooperation and capabilities. This patrol serves as a pressure test for regional adversaries, particularly Japan and Taiwan, while demonstrating the growing operational integration of Chinese and Russian air forces.
Li MinghuiSun Jun 28 2026Loading...
Last soldier out of Afghanistan now the latest general to step down
General Christopher Donahue is set to step down from his role as the top Army general in Europe and Africa, with an announcement expected on Wednesday. This follows a series of leadership changes initiated by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, raising concerns about the future of military command structure. Donahue, known for being the last soldier to leave Afghanistan, has been in command since December 2024.
The U.S. Marine Corps Has a Fleet of ‘Secret’ Aircraft Carrier
The U.S. Marine Corps is conducting routine operations with Wasp-class amphibious assault ships in the Gulf of Aden and U.S. 3rd Fleet. These ships are capable of launching F-35B Lightning II fighters and supporting Marine Expeditionary Units. The operational focus includes island warfare in the Indo-Pacific region, enhancing the Marines' combat capabilities.
The Journey to the Distant Sea Witnesses the "Growth History" of China's Three Types of Aircraft Carriers
China's aircraft carriers, including Liaoning, Shandong, and the upcoming Fujian, are actively engaged in extensive training and operational exercises in the Western Pacific from 2023 to 2025. Shandong conducted significant drills in April and September 2023, while Fujian is set to enter service in November 2025, showcasing advanced capabilities with electromagnetic catapults. The dual-carrier exercises aim to improve the combat readiness of the People's Liberation Army Navy.
Liaoning Fleet's Voyage of Over 40 Days: What’s Different This Time?
The Liaoning aircraft carrier group completed over 40 days of realistic combat training, returning safely to Qingdao on the 22nd. The training involved operations in the South China Sea and Western Pacific, enhancing the group's capabilities through joint exercises with amphibious assault ships. The use of the Yunyou-20 tanker significantly increased the operational range of the carrier-based J-15 fighter jets, while the group remained vigilant against provocations from Japanese naval forces.
Valiant Shield 26 Begins: Changes in Western Pacific Deterrence Demonstrated by the Japan-U.S. Self-Defense Forces and Typhon
Valiant Shield 26 commenced on June 22, 2026, involving the U.S. Army and Japan Self-Defense Forces in multi-domain interoperability training. The exercise, running until July 1, includes the deployment of Typhon missile systems and HIMARS at Kano Air Base for integrated anti-ship warfare. The focus is on maintaining operational readiness and deterrence in the Western Pacific, with training extending from Kagoshima to Hawaii and Guam.
Tanaka TakashiTue Jun 23 2026Loading...
Liaoning Aircraft Carrier Returns to Port After 40 Days of Open Sea Training, PLA Aircraft Carrier and 075 Amphibious Ship Conduct Joint Training for the First Time
The Liaoning aircraft carrier returned to Qingdao on June 22 after 40 days of training, marking the first public joint exercise with the Anhui amphibious assault ship. The training involved various tactical operations, including live-fire exercises, in the South China Sea and Western Pacific, while being monitored by Japanese naval forces. This exercise aimed to enhance coordination between different naval platforms and tested the PLA Navy's operational capabilities.
Li MinghuiTue Jun 23 2026Loading...
40 Days of Three Major Tests: Liaoning Ship's Combat Power Reaches New Heights
The Liaoning aircraft carrier conducted extensive military training exercises in the South China Sea and Western Pacific over a period of 40 days. The exercises included air defense, maritime strikes, and comprehensive rescue operations, involving multiple naval vessels and aircraft. This training is aimed at enhancing the operational capabilities of the carrier.
The Liaoning Fleet Successfully Completes Far-Sea Combat Training in the South China Sea and Western Pacific Ocean
The Liaoning aircraft carrier group completed long-range combat training in the South China Sea and Western Pacific, returning safely to Qingdao on June 22 after over 40 days of exercises. The training involved joint operations with an amphibious assault ship group and focused on real combat scenarios to enhance operational readiness.
Liaoning Fleet Professionally and Steadily Handles Japanese Ship and Aircraft Provocations, Footage Released
The Liaoning aircraft carrier group successfully completed over 40 days of long-range combat training and returned to Qingdao on June 22. During the training, the group maintained high readiness against provocations from Japanese vessels and aircraft, conducting combat flight operations and adapting formations as necessary.
The Houthis' Closure of the Red Sea Puts Bab el-Mandeb to the Test of Missiles and Boats 2026
Houthi forces approached a commercial ship near Balhaf on June 10, 2026, engaging in a firefight with the ship's security team. This incident follows a missile threat against Israeli shipping in the Red Sea, highlighting ongoing military tensions in the region. The Houthi's actions are part of a broader strategy to disrupt maritime security and influence regional negotiations.
Ahmed Al-RashidFri Jun 19 2026Loading...
JNIM and the Islamic State Gain Ground in Benin — 80% More Cross-Border Attacks
Jihadist groups JNIM and ISSP have significantly increased their operational presence in northern Benin, with attacks rising by 80% between 2024 and 2025, resulting in over 1,000 deaths. The region is becoming a strategic area for these groups, who are establishing bases and routes for operations. The Sahel Alliance Battalion, consisting of 5,000 troops, is deemed inadequate to counter this escalating threat effectively.
Marie DuboisMon Jun 15 2026Loading...
Battleships Riding the Waves and Sharpening Swords at Sea: The Navy's 48th Escort Task Force Conducts Multiple Targeted Training Exercises
The 48th Escort Task Force of the Navy conducted targeted training exercises in the Gulf of Aden, enhancing their operational capabilities against piracy. Special forces executed anti-piracy drills, utilizing naval vessels and helicopters for surveillance. The training included live-fire exercises and emergency response scenarios, aimed at improving coordination and readiness in complex maritime environments.
China's Liaoning Carrier Just Flew 170 Deck Cycles Near Japan
The People's Liberation Army Navy's Liaoning aircraft carrier conducted 170 deck cycles over three days from May 26 to 28, 2026, in the Western Pacific, south of Japan. The carrier group included five vessels, demonstrating operational capabilities and rehearsing for potential future military engagements. This activity complicates US and allied operations in the region, indicating a shift in the PLAN's operational comfort.
Marcus ChenThu Jun 04 2026Loading...Mogadishu 2026 in Somalia — Al-Shabaab Exploits the Fighting Between Government and Opposition
On June 4, 2026, armed clashes erupted in Mogadishu between Somali government forces and opposition-linked militias ahead of a planned protest against President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. The violence has led to civilian displacement and raised concerns about Al-Shabaab exploiting the political instability. The ongoing conflict highlights the fragility of security in the capital amid a political crisis.
Marie DuboisThu Jun 04 2026Loading...Blighter to supply 4D multi-mode radars to Eastern European Army to protect land and sea borders from ground incursions and low flying drones
Blighter secured a contract on June 4, 2026, to supply its A800 Mk 2 4D multi-mode radars to an Eastern European Army for border protection against ground incursions and low-flying drones. The radars will be deployed at fixed locations and integrated with the Army's command-and-control systems.
Liaoning Aircraft Carrier Conducts 170 Takeoffs and Landings in 3 Days, PLA 054B Frigate's First Escort Mission Exposes Shortcomings in Deep Sea Operations
The Liaoning aircraft carrier conducted approximately 170 takeoffs and landings of J-15 fighter jets and helicopters from May 26 to 28, 2023, in the Western Pacific, east of the Philippines. The 054B frigate participated in these exercises for the first time, indicating an upgrade in the People's Liberation Army Navy's operational capabilities. These activities are part of China's ongoing efforts to improve its naval presence and operational readiness in the region.
Li MinghuiThu Jun 04 2026Loading...The destroyer Kaga begins F-35B landing and takeoff training on June 4, advancing the maritime air operations of the Japan-U.S. alliance to a combat stage.
The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force's JS Kaga will conduct joint training exercises with U.S. Marine Corps F-35B aircraft in the Western Pacific from June 4 to June 12, 2026. This training focuses on deck landing and take-off operations, enhancing Japan's tactical skills and strengthening U.S.-Japan military relations. The exercises represent a significant advancement in Japan's naval aviation capabilities.
Tanaka TakashiThu Jun 04 2026Loading...JS Kaga of the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force Begins F-35B Training on June 4, Demonstrating Japan-U.S. Maritime Air Power
JS Kaga commenced F-35B training in the Western Pacific from June 4 to June 12, 2026, as part of a joint exercise with the U.S. Marine Corps. This training focuses on deck landing and take-off operations, enhancing the interoperability of Japan-U.S. forces. The exercise occurs amid increased Chinese naval activity in the region, highlighting the strategic importance of these operations.
Tanaka TakashiWed Jun 03 2026Loading...
