Analysis & Reports

Gasoline production in Russia decreased by 25% from June 15 to June 21, 2025, revealing vulnerabilities in the Russian war effort. Fuel supply restrictions have been implemented across various regions, and the government is contemplating increasing fuel imports to address the crisis. The situation is exacerbated by Ukrainian drone strikes targeting oil refining facilities, affecting military logistics and operations.

Dmitri VolkovThu Jun 25 2026Loading...

The Ministry of National Defense of Taiwan criticized the Democratic Progressive Party for intentionally escalating tensions across the Taiwan Strait during the U.S. and Japan's 'Brave Shield 2026' military exercises on June 25. The Ministry emphasized that military exercises cannot ensure true security and warned against prioritizing political interests over public welfare.

China's Ministry of National Defense asserted that its defense spending is transparent and reasonable, contrasting it with Japan's rapidly increasing military budget, which has reached 2% of GDP. The Chinese official accused Japan of using conspiracy theories to mislead public opinion and conceal its militarization ambitions. Japan's defense minister recently questioned the transparency of China's military expenditures, while China emphasized its compliance with international transparency standards.

Lockheed Martin unveiled the Next Generation Glide Body (NXGB) on June 24, 2026, in Huntsville, Alabama, aiming to enhance hypersonic capabilities while reducing production costs. The NXGB is designed for affordability and scalability, with a flight demonstration planned for 2027 to validate its performance. This new hypersonic glide body can be launched from various platforms, reflecting a shift in design philosophy to prioritize manufacturing efficiency.

Southern Theater Command Air Force conducted aerial refueling training with multiple aircraft. Pilots executed both daytime and nighttime operations, successfully completing the refueling maneuvers. This training enhances operational readiness and capabilities.

HENSOLDT officially opened a logistics centre in Wolfhagen, Germany, on 25 June 2026, to support the Bundeswehr Central Spare Parts Logistics (ZEBEL) project. The facility will begin operations in early September and will store around 70,000 supply items, processing over 1 million transactions annually. Major General Jochen Deuer emphasized the importance of ZEBEL for the Bundeswehr's logistical capabilities.

The U.S. Army awarded Northrop Grumman a five-year contract on June 22, 2026, to produce the M1147 Advanced Multi-Purpose round for the M1 Abrams tank. This new ammunition consolidates four legacy rounds into one, enhancing the tank's operational flexibility and lethality. The M1147 allows crews to switch between three detonation modes, improving engagement efficiency against various target types.

The People's Liberation Army Navy's 48th Escort Task Force will visit Seychelles in late June to participate in the 50th anniversary parade of the country's independence. This marks China's first involvement in such an event, aimed at strengthening bilateral relations and strategic trust between China and Seychelles.

Patria signed a Memorandum of Understanding with KOVO Armor in May 2026 to facilitate the procurement of 936 Patria 6×6 armored vehicles for Lithuania. This agreement aims to enhance local production, technology transfer, and the development of Lithuania's defense industry. The cooperation is expected to create skilled jobs and strengthen supply chain security in the region.

The 4th China-ASEAN Defense Think Tank Exchange Event will be held in Kunming from July 8 to 10. The event will focus on the theme of Asian security models and cooperation between China and ASEAN to address global changes. Experts and scholars will engage in discussions to build consensus on promoting peace and prosperity in the region.

The Ministry of National Defense of China is hosting the second Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) exchange event for young military officers from June 25 to July 1. The event includes lectures, discussions, and visits, aiming to enhance cooperation and friendship among SCO member states. The theme is 'SCO Youth Together, Building a Safe Future'.

Granta Autonomy unveiled the Black Wasp, an autonomous interceptor drone, in Lithuania on June 24, 2026. The drone is specifically designed to target and destroy Shahed-class attack drones, enhancing counter-drone capabilities. Weighing 4 kg, it can reach speeds of 320 km/h and operate at altitudes up to 7,000 m. Granta has been actively supplying Ukrainian forces with drone technology since the onset of the conflict in 2022.

Kuwait is purchasing Counter UAS platforms worth $1.98 billion from the U.S. to bolster its defense against drone threats. This acquisition, which includes systems from Anduril, signifies a strategic shift in Kuwait's military capabilities, focusing on low-altitude airspace management. Additionally, Kuwait is seeking support for its KC-130J aircraft, indicating a broader effort to maintain operational readiness in a challenging regional landscape.

Ahmed Al-RashidThu Jun 25 2026Loading...

On June 18, the Southern Theater Navy Rescue Team successfully completed a 300-meter saturation diving training exercise in the South China Sea. The operation involved four divers who endured extreme conditions, including high pressure and low temperatures. A welcoming ceremony was held to celebrate their return, highlighting the challenges faced during the training.

The Chinese Coast Guard inspected 198 vessels in Eastern Taiwan waters, asserting jurisdiction and prompting warnings from the U.S., U.K., France, and Germany about threats to regional stability. Taiwan reported that vessels were questioned about their routes, indicating a strategic move by China to establish control over maritime traffic. This situation raises concerns for Japan regarding the security of its sea lines of communication (SLOC).

Tanaka TakashiThu Jun 25 2026Loading...

Michael Menges was appointed Vice President of Land Systems at Elbit Systems Deutschland on June 24, 2026. He aims to enhance the market positioning of ground-based military products for German customers, emphasizing local production capacity and addressing capability gaps for military units in Germany and Europe.

The Chinese Navy's Liaoning aircraft carrier group conducted a training exercise in the Western Pacific, during which the Japanese Defense Ministry failed to capture any clear images. Despite multiple attempts to monitor the group, Japanese forces were hindered by the Liaoning's advanced electronic warfare systems, resulting in a lack of actionable intelligence. This exercise showcased the enhanced operational capabilities of the Chinese Navy, making it difficult for Japanese forces to maintain effective surveillance.

The Southern Theater Command Navy conducted high-intensity combat training in the South China Sea, focusing on multi-layered defense against unidentified aerial targets. Vessels engaged in real-time drills, enhancing tactical coordination without pre-set plans. The exercise aimed to improve the unit's operational capabilities and maintain a high state of combat readiness.

The 73rd Group Army conducted full-process live-fire air defense exercises in the Northwest Desert, employing innovative training methods. Teams rapidly deployed, established defensive positions, and effectively intercepted simulated enemy threats using portable missile units. This exercise aimed to improve the troops' combat readiness and operational capabilities in complex battlefield scenarios.

The People's Liberation Army (PLA) conducted low-intensity patrols in the Taiwan Strait from June 19 to 23, 2023, with 165 aircraft and 256 vessels detected. On June 22, 20 of 23 aircraft crossed the median line, while the presence of coast guard ships alongside military vessels indicates a strategy of sustained pressure on Taiwan's defense capabilities. This ongoing activity tests Taiwan's response systems and military readiness.

Li MinghuiThu Jun 25 2026Loading...