Analysis & Reports
AI-assisted analysis of military-related information from public sources
Embraer, Anduril pursuing Barracuda missiles on C-390
Embraer signed an agreement with Anduril to integrate Barracuda-500M missiles onto the C-390 Millennium aircraft at the Farnborough Airshow. This marks the first offensive capability for the C-390, with interest from various countries in Europe and Asia. Embraer anticipates delivering the first two C-390s to the United Arab Emirates by 2028, while also expanding production of the Saab Gripen for international clients.
The People's Liberation Army Daily Focuses on Japan's Unmanned Platforms: 10 Trillion Yen Plan Intensifies East China Sea Reconnaissance Competition
The People's Liberation Army (PLA) emphasizes the strategic implications of Japan's planned 1 trillion yen investment in unmanned systems, which aims to enhance its reconnaissance capabilities in the East China Sea. This development is viewed as a response to Japan's efforts to establish asymmetric advantages in regional defense. The PLA is particularly concerned about the potential for increased surveillance and the impact on military operations in the area.
Li MinghuiTue Jul 21 2026Loading...
China Coast Guard's July 20 Clash and the Imminent Submarine-Launched Ballistic Missile Test Prompt a Reassessment of Japan's Southwest Defense
On July 20, 2026, a clash occurred between a Philippine small boat and the Chinese Coast Guard at Second Thomas Shoal in the South China Sea, resulting in one Philippine Navy personnel being injured. The U.S. condemned China's actions as 'dangerous and aggressive', while the incident coincided with China's recent submarine-launched ballistic missile test on July 6, indicating a broader strategic pressure on regional allies.
Tanaka TakashiTue Jul 21 2026Loading...China Coast Guard's Permanent Presence in Eastern Taiwan and the Upcoming JL-3 Test Fire Threaten Japan's SLOC Defense
Chinese Coast Guard vessels are stationed approximately 54 nautical miles east of Taiwan, while a submarine-launched ballistic missile was tested on July 6, 2026, landing in the South Pacific. Taiwan condemned these actions as violations of international law, highlighting concerns over regional stability. The Chinese military's activities are perceived as a strategy to exert psychological pressure on Japan and its allies regarding maritime routes.
Tanaka TakashiTue Jul 21 2026Loading...
Come and see! The soldier "hand-crafted" a driverless car like this.
A technician from the 76th Group Army successfully developed and tested a small unmanned vehicle in the Gobi Desert for transporting supplies during military training exercises. The vehicle, nicknamed 'mountain wildcat', can navigate rough terrain and assists soldiers in logistics. The project took over two months and involved significant troubleshooting to ensure functionality.
China’s Best Aircraft Carrier-Based Fighter Exists Only Because of One Unfinished Jet That Russia Left Behind in Ukraine
China developed the J-15 fighter jet, enhancing its naval aviation capabilities, based on the Su-33 prototype acquired from Ukraine in 2001. This acquisition allowed China to fill critical technical gaps in its military aviation. The J-15 transitioned from using Russian systems to domestically produced components, despite facing early technical challenges. The development of the J-15 represents a significant advancement in China's military capabilities.
US Army reportedly deploys new hypersonic missile to Guam
The U.S. Army deployed the Dark Eagle Long-Range Hypersonic Weapon to Guam for training during Exercise Valiant Shield in June 2026. This exercise involved multinational forces across Guam, Japan, and the Northern Mariana Islands. The Dark Eagle system, capable of reaching targets in mainland China, was observed in training exercises by the 7th Infantry Division (Multi-Domain Command – Pacific).
Yun-9 Anti-Submarine Aircraft Upgrade Debuts in the South China Sea, PLA Completes Underwater Shortcomings with Hundreds of Sonar Buoys
The upgraded Y-9 anti-submarine aircraft was showcased by the Southern Theater Command Navy during training exercises in the South China Sea on July 16. The exercises included the deployment of nearly 100 sonar buoys to enhance underwater detection capabilities. This indicates a significant advancement in the PLA's anti-submarine warfare capabilities and operational readiness.
Li MinghuiMon Jul 20 2026Loading...
The New Pressure the Confirmation of China's Type 076 Sichuan Electromagnetic Catapult Poses on the Defense of the Southwestern Islands
The Type 076 Sichuan amphibious assault ship, confirmed near Shanghai, features an electromagnetic catapult and is expected to launch fixed-wing combat drones. This development represents a significant enhancement in the Chinese Navy's capabilities, potentially impacting Japan's defense strategies in the southwestern islands. The ship's design allows for extended operational reach, posing new challenges for regional security.
Tanaka TakashiMon Jul 20 2026Loading...
The 10th Ship of the Maritime Self-Defense Force, While Commissioned with 16 Cells of Mk41, Strengthens Southwest Surveillance of the Mogami Class
The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force commissioned the new destroyer 'Nagara' in Nagasaki on June 29, 2026, enhancing its surveillance capabilities in the southwestern region. The vessel features a 16-cell Mk41 vertical launch system and is designed to operate with a reduced crew of approximately 90 personnel. This commissioning reflects Japan's response to increasing military activities in the region and aims to bolster its naval defense capabilities.
Tanaka TakashiSun Jul 19 2026Loading...
Anti-Submarine Patrol Aircraft Deploys Depth Charges, Engaging Day and Night!
Multiple aircraft from the Naval Aviation Force of the Eastern Theater Command conducted anti-submarine warfare training at an airport, deploying live depth charges. The exercise involved coordination with a maritime command group and included both day and night operations. During the training, a fire control system malfunction was reported, but the crew successfully resolved the issue and continued the mission.
Taiwan 2027 $2 Billion Aid Buys Time Not Deterrence
The U.S. plans a $2 billion aid package for Taiwan in Fiscal Year 2027 to enhance military capabilities against China. This package includes direct assistance and replenishment of U.S. military equipment. Taiwan requires mobile launchers and effective air defense systems to deter potential threats from China, which has been increasing military activities in the region. The aid aims to improve Taiwan's readiness and operational capabilities.
Marcus ChenSat Jul 18 2026Loading...
How Many Missiles Can the F-15EX Actually Carry? The Demonstrated Answer Is 12. Others Say 22. The Real Story Is Why the Number Keeps Moving
The F-15EX Eagle II has proven its capability to carry 12 air-to-air missiles during tests conducted by the U.S. Air Force. The aircraft, revealed on April 7, 2022, at Eglin Air Force Base, is set to be procured in larger numbers, with plans for 267 units. It features 23 hardpoints for various munitions and is designed for roles including homeland defense and standoff strikes.
RIMPAC 2026 Shows Japan's Type 12 Problem Is Geography
On July 11, 2026, Japan Ground Self-Defense Force and Kentucky National Guard units conducted synchronized missile launches at a naval target off Kauai during RIMPAC 2026. The exercise involved 30,000 personnel from 30 nations, demonstrating the capability for joint operations. However, challenges remain regarding operational effectiveness in contested environments, particularly after initial missile salvos.
Marcus ChenSat Jul 18 2026Loading...
China's Type 094 Nuclear Submarine Completes July Submarine-Launched Long-Range Missile Test, PLA's Sea-Based Nuclear Deterrence Shortcomings Shift to Anti-Submarine Barrier
China's Type 094 nuclear submarine successfully launched an intercontinental ballistic missile on July 6, 2023, in the South China Sea. This test marks a significant advancement in China's naval nuclear deterrent capabilities, emphasizing the need for effective anti-submarine warfare to ensure operational success. The missile's trajectory towards the deep Pacific indicates a strategic shift in deterrence posture.
Li MinghuiSat Jul 18 2026Loading...
China Went From 200 Nuclear Warheads to Roughly 620 in Under a Decade — the Fastest Buildup on Earth
China is rapidly expanding its nuclear arsenal, increasing from 200 to approximately 620 warheads as of 2024. The Pentagon projects that this number could exceed 1,000 by 2030, with significant construction of new missile silos in Yumen, Hami, and Ordos. The expansion includes a completed nuclear triad, indicating a shift in China's military capabilities.
The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force submarine sinks USS Juneau in 2026 VS26, meaning SINKEX 200 nautical miles away.
On June 27, 2026, the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force submarine sank the decommissioned USS Juneau during a sinking exercise in the Philippine Sea, over 200 nautical miles off Guam. This event was part of Valiant Shield 2026, involving multiple military forces and showcasing the capabilities of JMSDF submarines in joint operations.
Tanaka TakashiSat Jul 18 2026Loading...
Japan and Vietnam's 2026 High-Speed Landing Craft Talks Will Change South China Sea Defense
Japan and Vietnam agreed to jointly develop fast landing craft during a meeting in Tokyo in July 2026. This collaboration aims to enhance rapid transport capabilities for defense and disaster response in the South China Sea. The project is significant for Japan's defense industry cooperation in the Indo-Pacific and reflects the sensitive political dynamics in the region.
Tanaka TakashiSat Jul 18 2026Loading...
China Revived the Nuclear Weapon That Comes Over the South Pole. The Soviets Gave It Up by Treaty — This Time There’s No Treaty
China has resurrected the fractional orbital bombardment system (FOBS), conducting secretive tests in 2021 that demonstrated its capability to evade U.S. early-warning systems. The U.S. Senate confirmed Gen. Michael Guetlein to lead the Golden Dome missile defense project in response to this threat. The Defense Intelligence Agency projects that China could field 60 operational FOBS by 2035, amid a rapidly expanding nuclear arsenal.
The Harpoon Missile at (Almost) 50: How a Cold War Whale-Hunter Became the Free World’s Ship-Killer, and Why It Refuses to Retire
Taiwan established a new Littoral Combat Command in July 2026, integrating 400 Harpoon Block II missiles and 100 truck-mounted launchers into its coastal defense. This move follows the U.S. Navy's conclusion of the classic Harpoon production, marking a significant shift in military strategy. The Harpoon missile, with a history of widespread deployment, is set to play a crucial role in Taiwan's defense against potential maritime threats.
