Analysis & Reports

Japan Self-Defense Forces and U.S. Marine Corps are conducting the joint military exercise 'Resolute Dragon 26' from June 20 to June 30, 2026, across the southwestern islands of Japan. The exercise focuses on enhancing island defense capabilities and logistics, involving multiple units and equipment such as the Typhon missile system and HIMARS. Training locations include Nishinoomote, Amami, Miyako, Ishigaki, and Yonaguni.

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The Rocket Force of the People's Liberation Army is conducting live-fire exercises in the Northwest Gobi Desert, utilizing new missile systems such as the DF-17 and DF-26D. These exercises involve multiple military branches and emphasize high operational standards under complex conditions. The integration of advanced technology enhances the precision and effectiveness of the missile systems deployed.

Naval Group, MESKO, and TELESYSTEM signed an agreement on 19th June 2026 to demonstrate the Piorun missile's capabilities on Naval Group's Rampart during future naval exercises. This collaboration aims to integrate the missile into the launching system, enhancing defense against aerial threats. The Piorun missile is designed to counter low flying threats, including UAVs and helicopters.

Israeli forces conducted artillery and airstrikes in Nabatieh, Lebanon, on June 20, targeting the town of Haboush and a nearby area. The strikes were reported by Hezbollah-affiliated media, indicating ongoing military operations in the region.

The U.S. Department of Defense requested $80 billion from Congress to cover costs associated with military operations against Iran. This request follows a confirmation from Defense Secretary that without additional funding, military operations could be jeopardized. The U.S. has already spent around $25 billion on these operations, with ongoing pressure from Congress for detailed financial accountability.

North Industries Group showcased various drone systems, including the BZK-005E reconnaissance drone and CY-8 cargo drone, at Eurosatory 2026 in Paris on June 18, 2026. The display emphasized China's intent to not only sell drones but also production capabilities, potentially impacting military logistics in the Middle East. The BZK-005E is already operational within the PLA and has been exported to several countries.

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The Marine Corps conducted the first 'Multi-Functional Cup' competition, showcasing participants in various physical and tactical challenges. Events included shooting accuracy, combat fitness, and emergency rescue scenarios, demonstrating the skills and readiness of the troops. The competition concluded successfully, with participants receiving awards for their performance.

China refuses to export the J-20 Mighty Dragon stealth fighter, viewing it as a strategic asset essential for military competition with the US. The People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) prioritizes the J-20 for domestic use, focusing on protecting sensitive technologies and capabilities. Instead, China offers the J-35 as an export-oriented alternative.

The North Sea Maritime Bureau issued a navigation warning for military training in the Gulf of Tonkin on June 22 from 12:00 to 14:00, prohibiting vessels from entering the area.

The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force's JS Kongo participated in group sailing exercises with naval forces from the Philippines, South Korea, Italy, and Singapore, heading towards RIMPAC 2026 in Hawaii from June 24 to July 12, 2026. This exercise aims to enhance multilateral command and control capabilities amid evolving threats from North Korea and increasing Chinese naval activities in the Pacific.

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The People's Liberation Army Rocket Force successfully launched an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) carrying a training dummy warhead into the Pacific Ocean on September 25, 2024, at 8:44 AM. This marked the first live-fire opportunity for operator Zhao Jing after 22 years of service, showcasing the unit's readiness and capability. The operation was executed flawlessly with extensive preparation and monitoring.

New recruits of the People's Liberation Army Air Force were awarded ranks and showcased their training achievements during a recent ceremony attended by family members. The event emphasized the growth of the recruits and included a display of their training results. One recruit was recognized for outstanding performance, reflecting the support and pride of their families in their military journey.

The Israeli Defense Forces continue military operations in southern Lebanon in response to violations of the ceasefire agreement by Hezbollah. On June 18, a Hezbollah attack killed 1 Israeli commander and 3 soldiers. Following this, Israeli airstrikes targeted 150 Hezbollah positions, resulting in significant casualties. Despite a ceasefire agreement effective June 19, airstrikes continued in southern Lebanon.

Israeli Air Force conducted airstrikes in Jezin, southern Lebanon on June 19, despite a ceasefire agreement with Hezbollah. The ceasefire was set to begin at 4 PM local time. The ongoing conflict has resulted in significant casualties, with 3,980 reported dead and 12,001 injured since March 2.

Israeli airstrikes on Lebanon on June 19 resulted in at least 47 deaths and 97 injuries, targeting over 80 Hezbollah positions. The Israeli Defense Forces stated the strikes were in response to violations of a ceasefire agreement by Hezbollah. Reports indicate that a new ceasefire was agreed upon starting at 4 PM local time.

U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning IIs conducted historic flight operations from a highway in Tervo, Finland, from June 8-12, 2026, as part of NATO-led Exercise Ramstein Flag 2026. The exercise involved 19 nations and aimed to enhance combat adaptability in contested environments, with air command coordinated from NATO’s Combined Air Operations Center in Bodo, Norway.

The Army launched a new Indo-Pacific command at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, integrating traditional formations with advanced cyber, space, and electronic warfare capabilities. This command, led by the 7th Infantry Division (Multi-Domain Command-Pacific), aims to enhance operational effectiveness through the Cross Domain Contact Layer, which connects various military technologies. The initiative reflects the Army's ongoing transformation efforts in the region.

The U.S. Army launched a new Indo-Pacific command at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, integrating traditional formations with advanced cyber, space, and electronic warfare capabilities. This initiative includes the establishment of the Cross Domain Contact Layer, designed to enhance operational effectiveness across multiple domains. The redesignation reflects the Army's ongoing transformation to improve capabilities in contested environments.

The U.S. Air Force announced that Air Force One, a Boeing VC-25B Bridge aircraft, has been delivered to the Presidential Airlift Group at Joint Base Andrews, Maryland, and will begin commissioning flights in May 2025. This aircraft, donated by Qatar, is intended to provide secure transportation for the president while modifications are completed on the aging fleet. The commissioning process includes validating mission capability and finalizing safety protocols for presidential use.

The U.S. Department of Defense requested $80 billion to cover costs related to the Iran war and other expenses this week. The funding request includes military and non-defense priorities, with the Iran war estimated to have cost around $25 billion. An initial request for $200 billion faced significant opposition from lawmakers, and a supplemental request is expected to be sent soon.