Analysis & Reports

Chinese naval vessels Qi Jiguang and Kunlunshan are set to visit Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, in early July at the invitation of the Vietnamese Navy. This visit reflects the deepening cooperation between the Chinese and Vietnamese navies in areas such as vessel exchanges and joint patrols, aimed at enhancing mutual trust and maintaining regional stability.

On July 3, 2026, the UK, Italy, and Japan awarded a $6.1 billion contract to Edgewing for the development of a next-generation stealth fighter jet under the Global Combat Air Programme. This initiative aims to replace existing aircraft and enhance military capabilities, with a demonstrator aircraft expected to fly by the end of 2027. The program represents a significant collaboration among the three nations, focusing on advanced technology and global security.

The Chinese Coast Guard has commenced patrols in the eastern waters of Taiwan as of July 2026, exerting new pressure on Japan and the Philippines. This activity is viewed as an attempt to assert control over maritime routes and is not limited to law enforcement, indicating a shift in regional maritime dynamics. The situation complicates security for both Japan and the Philippines, as they must navigate the implications of these patrols on their own maritime operations.

Tanaka TakashiSat Jul 04 2026Loading...

China's aerospace industry is producing hundreds of J-20 stealth fighters, enhancing its military capabilities. However, the People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) faces significant challenges in training elite pilots, as they lack combat experience and institutional knowledge. To mitigate this, China is actively recruiting experienced Western military pilots to improve its pilot training programs.

Japan, Italy, and the U.K. signed a £4.6 billion contract for the development of the GCAP fighter jet in Rome. This contract, awarded to the Edgewing consortium, follows a commitment of £8.6 billion over four years from the U.K. to support the program. Japan emphasized the need for the jet to be operational by 2035, reflecting the urgency of the project ahead of the Farnborough airshow.

Taiwan is enhancing its defense capabilities by prioritizing drone technology to deter conflict with China. U.S. diplomat Raymond Greene emphasized the importance of drones at a forum in Taichung, stating they could significantly boost Taiwan's security. The Taiwanese government has proposed a substantial budget for drone development, while the opposition party has also introduced its own drone legislation. Greene highlighted the effectiveness of drones in modern warfare, referencing their impact in Ukraine.

China fields approximately 4,700 active main battle tanks, making it the largest tank army globally. India follows with a fleet ranging from 3,700 to 4,614 tanks, while Russia has about 3,460 active tanks, significantly reduced due to losses in Ukraine. North Korea's active tank count is estimated between 3,500 and 4,300, and the United States has around 2,640 active Abrams tanks. The report highlights discrepancies between reported and operational tank numbers across these nations.

Chaiseri Metal and Rubber secured its first export contract to supply five AWAV 8×8 armored amphibious vehicles to the Philippine Marine Corps, with delivery expected by 2027. This contract marks a significant achievement for the Thai manufacturer, as it competes against established international defense companies. The AWAV is specifically designed for amphibious operations, crucial for the logistics of the Philippine military across its numerous islands.

The third Yue Lu Arms Control Forum is set to take place from July 7-8 at the National Defense Science and Technology University, involving approximately 140 representatives discussing military control cooperation and global governance. This forum marks a significant shift in China's approach to military modernization, emphasizing the importance of technology governance and verification mechanisms in military control discussions.

Li MinghuiFri Jul 03 2026Loading...

Taiwan's military unit reported that it can only operate 1 out of 9 administrative vehicles due to a ban on Chinese-made components implemented in 2024. During a legislative session on July 1, 2026, Defense Minister Wellington Koo acknowledged the issue and stated that the ministry is exploring alternatives to replace Chinese parts. The ban is part of Taiwan's broader strategy to eliminate Chinese hardware from its military supply chains amid rising security concerns.

Military doctor Jia Peng successfully donated over 500 ml of hematopoietic stem cells in Fujian after being notified of a match with a patient. His wife supported him during the process, which altered their honeymoon plans. The donation was successful, and the recipient is currently recovering. Jia Peng has a history of blood donations and advocates for more people to join the stem cell donor registry.

Australia announced the Defence Industry Development Strategy (DIDS) in Melbourne, aiming to enhance its sovereign defense industrial base. The strategy includes an $80 million AUD investment to support small- and medium-sized defense businesses and reforms to a $3 billion fund for the defense industry. Additionally, the Anduril Ghost Shark will be prioritized for export, and a new Defence Delivery Group will be established to advise on defense projects.

Indonesia is developing two Scorpene submarines, with the first expected to be operational by 2032 and the second by 2033. The Indonesian Navy faces challenges in maintaining a continuous patrol presence due to limited numbers and operational requirements. The submarines will incorporate advanced technologies, but Indonesia's goal of a 12-submarine fleet highlights the need for further development and support to ensure effective maritime security.

Marcus ChenThu Jul 02 2026Loading...

U.S. support for Taiwan is weakening, with indications that the Trump Administration may prioritize economic agreements with China over military backing. The U.S. has pressured Taiwan to relocate semiconductor production and has indicated a reduced commitment to arms sales. Public support for military intervention in Taiwan remains low, complicating future U.S. responses to potential Chinese aggression.

The UK government committed £8.6 billion to the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) on July 1, 2023, to ensure funding continuity for the development of a sixth-generation fighter aircraft. This funding aims to prevent liquidity issues for the Edgewing consortium, which includes BAE Systems, Leonardo, and Japan Aircraft Industrial Enhancement Co. Ltd. However, concerns persist regarding the long-term financial stability of the program and its reliance on national budget cycles.

Dr. Klaus WeberThu Jul 02 2026Loading...

Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force and Republic of Korea Navy resumed joint search and rescue training after a 9-year hiatus, emphasizing operational continuity amid North Korean threats. The defense ministers of both nations met to discuss ongoing cooperation and technological advancements, highlighting the importance of maintaining readiness in the face of regional security challenges.

Tanaka TakashiThu Jul 02 2026Loading...

Japan deployed U.S. medium and short-range missile systems on July 1, 2023, which Russia claims threatens regional stability. The Russian Foreign Ministry stated this action poses a direct threat to Russia's Far East border, and Russia has warned Japan against such decisions. Concurrently, the U.S. and Japan have been conducting joint military exercises.

China fields the largest active-duty military in the world, numbering approximately 2 million personnel. The United States ranks third with about 1.32 million active-duty troops, while India holds second place with 1.43-1.48 million. North Korea's active-duty force is around 1.28-1.3 million, despite its smaller population. Russia's active-duty numbers are influenced by its ongoing military operations in Ukraine, with approximately 1.5 million authorized personnel but actual numbers affected by losses.

The UK secured £8.6 billion in funding for the GCAP fighter program, enabling the tri-nation consortium to proceed with a contract before the Farnborough Airshow. This funding addresses previous delays and aims to have an operational aircraft by 2035. The commitment was made amid pressure from Italy and Japan, who were concerned about the UK's funding delays.

The second Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) exchange event concluded in Shanghai on July 1, involving young military officers and defense officials from 16 countries. The event, which lasted from June 25 to July 1, focused on defense cooperation and included visits to military and technological sites, showcasing China's innovations. Participants discussed regional security and the importance of continued collaboration among SCO member states.