Analysis & Reports

China conducted coast guard patrols in the Pacific Ocean east of Taiwan in June 2023 and test-fired a submarine-launched ballistic missile from the South China Sea in July 2023. These actions are part of China's strategy to deter rivals and assert territorial claims, with the coast guard's presence indicating a long-term military posture. The missile test, which drew international protests, showcased China's nuclear capabilities and aimed to warn regional powers against military buildup.

The battleship Richelieu engaged in naval operations from 1940 to 1945, including firing at Royal Navy battleships during Operation Menace in Dakar. After sustaining damage, she was rebuilt in Brooklyn and later joined the British Home Fleet, participating in operations against Japanese forces. Richelieu ultimately finished the war escorting the same fleet that had previously attacked her.

China's aerial refueling capabilities are inadequate to support the operational range of the H-20 stealth bomber, which requires a robust tanker fleet for intercontinental missions. Currently, China has about 35 tankers, while the US maintains over 500. The YY-20A tanker, although modern, is scarce, and the absence of flying-boom tankers limits the H-20's operational effectiveness. Without significant improvements in its refueling capabilities, the H-20 will remain a regional strike aircraft rather than an intercontinental bomber.

China's aerial refueling capabilities, with approximately 35 aircraft, are inadequate to support the operational range of the H-20 stealth bomber. The U.S. maintains a fleet of over 500 tankers, highlighting a significant logistical gap. The YY-20A tanker, while modern, is scarce, and the absence of flying-boom tankers limits the H-20's intercontinental mission capabilities. Without a robust refueling system, the H-20 remains a regional strike aircraft rather than an intercontinental bomber.

The U.S. Marine Corps is integrating the Bullseye cruise missile into its operations, enhancing its capabilities in the Indo-Pacific region. This missile, with a range of 186 miles, can be launched from air, ground, and sea platforms. Congress has allocated $40 million for its integration, which aims to improve the Marines' effectiveness against enemy defenses. The Bullseye is expected to play a crucial role in future amphibious operations and military engagements.

US Marines tested the Medium-Range Intercept Capability (MRIC) system on Guam on June 30, 2026. The MRIC is designed to intercept aerial threats within a range of 2 to 43 miles, but three planned batteries by 2028 may not provide adequate defense against potential threats in the Pacific. The testing highlights the need for improved air defense capabilities in the region.

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The Sichuan ship has completed the installation of the electromagnetic catapult and arrestor wire, marking its transition to the deck integration phase for the 076 amphibious assault ship, which is designed to operate fixed-wing drones. This development was reported by the Chinese military on July 5, 2023, following the ship's first sea trial.

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Babcock International Group completed the delivery of 123 Jackal 3 and Jackal 3 Extenda vehicles for the British Army in Devonport. The final vehicle, a six-wheeled Extenda variant, is currently undergoing testing. This program enhances the Army's capabilities in reconnaissance, patrol, and logistics, demonstrating effective collaboration between Babcock and Supacat.

BAE Systems was awarded a contract to supply the AN/ALQ-250 electronic warfare system for South Korea's F-15K jets as part of a $3.1 billion modernization effort running from 2024 to 2037. This upgrade aims to enhance the aircraft's capabilities against modern air defenses, with the first two modernized jets expected to be delivered by late 2028.

BAE Systems received a contract from Boeing to deliver AN/ALQ-250 Eagle Passive Active Warning Survivability Systems (EPAWSS) for the Republic of Korea Air Force's F-15K Slam Eagles. This advanced electronic warfare system will enhance situational awareness and self-defense capabilities for ROKAF pilots. The upgrade involves modifying a fleet of 59 aircraft to improve their ability to counter current and future threats.

The U.S. Army deployed the Typhon missile system and HIMARS to Kanoya Air Base in June 2026, enhancing military capabilities in Japan. This deployment signifies a strategic shift towards multi-layered deterrence in response to complex security environments. The Typhon system, capable of launching SM-6 and Tomahawk missiles, will operate alongside Japan's 12-type anti-ship missile, emphasizing collaborative defense efforts.

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A Chinese research team conducted a simulation demonstrating the detection and potential destruction of the B-21 Raider bomber using advanced technology. The study highlights the challenges China faces in actually killing the bomber, despite improvements in detection capabilities. The B-21 is crucial to U.S. military strategy, designed to penetrate sophisticated air defenses, while China's own H-20 bomber is still under development.

Taiwan's AN/FPS-115 Pave Paws radar detected a Chinese submarine-launched ballistic missile earlier this month, providing six minutes of warning. The radar, located in Taiwan, is the only one of its kind on the island, making it a critical vulnerability. The missile was tracked as it flew over the northern Philippines towards the South Pacific, with U.S. satellites continuing to monitor it beyond the radar's range.

The U.S. Navy is decommissioning the Ticonderoga-class cruisers USS Shiloh and USS Lake Erie, reducing the fleet to three remaining cruisers by 2029. This marks the first time in generations that the Navy will operate no cruisers, significantly impacting naval firepower. The replacement destroyers have fewer missile tubes, exacerbating the loss of capability.

Canada signed agreements with Australia to acquire the Arctic Over-The-Horizon Radar (A-OTHR) to enhance NORAD's airspace surveillance capabilities. The deal, valued at US$1.75 billion, aims to fill significant gaps in radar coverage, allowing detection of airborne and surface targets. The A-OTHR is expected to achieve initial operational capability by December 2029, improving monitoring of potential threats, including from Russia.

U.S. Marines with the 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion conducted training on the Multi-Mission Reconnaissance Craft Bravo (Whiskey Bravo) at Naha Military Port, Okinawa, on June 5, 2024. The training focused on familiarization with the vessel's operations, including launching and recovery, and involved both classroom instruction and practical drills. This new capability is intended to enhance reconnaissance operations across the Western Pacific.

Kongsberg reported a 31% revenue increase to NOK 10,389 million and a nearly 50% rise in operating profit to NOK 1,669 million in the second quarter of 2023. The company secured multiple contracts for its Joint Strike Missile and NASAMS air defense system, with Canada selecting the missile for its F-35A fleet. Kongsberg also expanded its focus on subsea infrastructure protection, reflecting growing interest in defense procurement.

China showcased the DF-17 hypersonic glide missile and conducted a submarine-launched ballistic missile test in July 2026, with the missile landing near Nauru and Tuvalu. This demonstration highlights the PLA's focus on advanced missile capabilities and strategic deterrence in the Pacific. Concurrently, the U.S. military is enhancing its mid-range interception systems in response to these developments.

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MAURIC partnered with Couach to deliver 24 coastal surveillance patrol vessels for the Maritime Gendarmerie, with the contract awarded on 29 June 2026. The first unit is expected in 2029, and five vessels will be deployed overseas in French Guiana, Mayotte, and New Caledonia. These vessels will support maritime policing and environmental protection missions.

China showcased the DF-17 hypersonic missile's capabilities, emphasizing its range and maneuverability, while the U.S. Marine Corps successfully tested the MRIC mid-range interception system in Guam. This highlights the ongoing military developments and strategic responses in the Western Pacific, with both nations enhancing their military capabilities in the region.

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