Analysis & Reports

On June 25, the Chinese Ministry of National Defense criticized the U.S. House Appropriations Committee's proposal to allocate $2 billion for military aid to Taiwan. The spokesperson emphasized that military force cannot bring peace and warned that such actions would exacerbate tensions in the Taiwan Strait. China reiterated that the Taiwan issue is a domestic matter and called for adherence to the One China principle.

On June 25, the Taiwan Ministry of National Defense commented on Lai Ching-te's promotion of the drone industry, describing it as a significant policy that could provoke conflict with China. The ministry emphasized the choice between peace and war for the Taiwanese people, labeling Lai as a 'war maker' and urging unity against independence movements.

On June 25, Taiwan's defense department reported that mainland military aircraft entered its southwestern airspace and the western Pacific for long-range operations. The People's Liberation Army released high-definition images of a drone circling Taiwan, asserting that they are closely monitoring the situation. Taiwan's defense spokesperson criticized these actions as self-deception by pro-independence forces.

China asserts its sovereign rights to conduct activities, including scientific research, at Huangyan Island. During a press conference on June 25, the Chinese Ministry of National Defense condemned the Philippines for its provocative actions and stated that any activities conducted by China in the area are legitimate. China emphasized its commitment to defending its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights.

On June 25, 2023, over 100 foreign military officers from more than 80 countries visited Ruijin, Zunyi, and Yan'an to study the history and spirit of the Long March. This event commemorated the 90th anniversary of the Long March, highlighting its significance in military history and fostering international military relations.

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.

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'.

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...

The Chinese Coast Guard conducted patrols off the east coast of Taiwan in June 2023, inspecting 198 vessels and reportedly harassing commercial ships. This operation was framed by China as a response to Japan and the Philippines' maritime discussions. The U.S., UK, France, and Germany condemned these actions, stating they threaten regional stability and freedom of navigation.

China is heavily investing in stealth aircraft and anti-stealth defenses while misunderstanding U.S. stealth capabilities. The People's Liberation Army (PLA) is developing low observability aircraft and advanced sensors, believing technology is the key to countering U.S. advantages. This misinterpretation may embolden China to take aggressive actions, such as invading Taiwan, as they view stealth as manageable through overwhelming volume and integrated networks.

Taiwan proposed a $6.6 billion budget for 2026 to procure 208,200 one-way attack drones, 1,446 reconnaissance drones, and 1,320 unmanned surface vessels to bolster its defense against China. The initiative emphasizes domestic production to ensure operational capability during a potential blockade. However, the effectiveness of this procurement hinges on establishing a reliable kill chain for target acquisition and command integration.

Marcus ChenWed Jun 24 2026Loading...

Japan plans to nationalize defense equipment production facilities, including ammunition, to ensure sustained combat capability in emergencies. The government intends to submit a bill to the Diet next year, prompting widespread public concern. The ruling party is advocating for increased defense budgets and policy revisions to enhance military readiness.

China's J-20 stealth fighter, operated by the People's Liberation Army Air Force, is the only fifth-generation fighter without an internal gun, reflecting a strategic choice to prioritize long-range missile combat. This decision parallels the U.S. experience with the F-4 Phantom in Vietnam, where the absence of a gun proved detrimental in close-range engagements. The J-20 is equipped with PL-10 and PL-15 missiles, emphasizing its role as a long-range interceptor.

In 2026, Chinese military academies plan to recruit around 17,500 high school graduates nationwide. The recruitment focuses on cultivating political officers and specialized medical personnel, with candidates required to meet specific age, marital, and physical fitness criteria. The process includes political assessments, interviews, and physical examinations.

Investors are channeling billions into defense technology startups in the U.S. and Europe, driven by the demand for drones, autonomous ships, and battlefield AI. Since early 2026, these startups have raised $12.3 billion, nearly double last year's total. The ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and the Gulf region have heightened interest in maritime defense technologies, with significant investments in companies like Anduril Industries. Concerns about market overvaluation are emerging as the demand for next-generation weapon systems continues to grow.

NASA's Skylab space station reentered Earth's atmosphere on July 12, 1979, scattering debris across Esperance, Western Australia. The reentry was uncontrolled, but no injuries occurred. The Shire of Esperance humorously fined the United States $400 for littering, a ticket that went unpaid for 30 years. A local teenager collected $10,000 for a piece of debris, highlighting the event's cultural impact.

Australia and Canada signed a $2.5 billion agreement for the purchase of an Over the Horizon Radar system, marking Australia's largest defense export. The deal involves the Jindalee Operational Radar Network (JORN) and aims to enhance threat detection for North America. BAE Systems Australia will provide support for the radar system's lifecycle and upgrades, reflecting the strategic military cooperation between the two nations.

Philippine forces are verifying a 6x6 meter structure in Scarborough Shoal, which may signify a change in control dynamics in the area. China has maintained a continuous presence since 2012, with 26 Chinese vessels recently monitored in the West Philippine Sea. The U.S. and Philippine forces conducted joint maritime activities nearby, highlighting the ongoing strategic competition in the region.

Marcus ChenMon Jun 22 2026Loading...