Analysis & Reports
AI-assisted analysis of military-related information from public sources
Japanese Media: Over 80% of Criminal Cases Involving U.S. Forces in Japan Not Prosecuted
In 2025, over 80% of general criminal cases involving U.S. military personnel in Japan were not prosecuted, with only 21 out of 134 cases leading to prosecution. The majority of these crimes occurred in Okinawa Prefecture, highlighting the implications of the U.S.-Japan Status of Forces Agreement, which grants legal privileges to U.S. forces. This situation reflects longstanding issues regarding the accountability of U.S. military personnel in Japan.
Canada plans to deeply participate in the Japan-UK-Italy fighter jet project.
Canada aims to deepen its involvement in the Japan-UK-Italy next-generation fighter jet project, seeking to become a formal member. On September 10, 2023, Canadian Ambassador Ian McKay stated that Canada will contribute its advanced technology in aircraft, radar, and satellite systems. This collaboration is part of a broader effort to strengthen defense cooperation among friendly nations in the Indo-Pacific region.
Freedom Edge: North Korea's Integrated Firepower Exercises After 2026 Test US-Japan-South Korea Missile Defense
North Korea launched multiple short-range ballistic missiles from Wonsan on September 12, 2026, as part of a joint firepower drill. This exercise involved ballistic and cruise missiles, attack drones, and large-caliber multiple rocket systems, testing the missile defense capabilities of Japan, the U.S., and South Korea following the Freedom Edge 2026 exercise. The drill highlighted North Korea's focus on integrated fire control systems.
Tanaka TakashiTue Sep 15 2026Loading...Beijing Xiangshan Forum Live Coverage: Military Representatives from Multiple Countries Arrive at the Venue
Military representatives from nearly 100 countries and regions arrived at the Beijing Xiangshan Forum held from September 15 to 17, 2023. The event featured over 60 attendees at the ministerial and general officer level, showcasing broad regional representation and strong inclusivity.
The 48th Escort Task Force of the People's Liberation Army Returns Home After Visiting Three Countries: A Look at the Long-Distance Operations of the 054A Dali Ship Through One Escort Mission
The Chinese Navy's 48th escort fleet returned from the Gulf of Aden on September 14 and is set to visit Bangladesh, Myanmar, and Malaysia for professional exchanges and ship open days. This operation emphasizes the fleet's capability for long-term deployment and logistical support in various international ports, reflecting a shift towards more comprehensive maritime operations.
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"Model Company of the 82nd Group Army's Certain Brigade 'Crossing the Wu River': Winning the Future Battlefield, Every Mission is a 'Crossing' (On the Road to Strengthening the Army: Entering the Heroic Long March Company)"
The 82nd Group Army's Model Company of Strong Crossing Wu River conducted reconnaissance training and combat drills at the Wu River, commemorating the 90th anniversary of the Red Army's Long March. The unit reflects on its historical significance and the spirit of 'fighting fiercely and advancing courageously' as they prepare for future operations. The training involved 17 soldiers using bamboo rafts, emphasizing the legacy of their predecessors' bravery during the original crossing in January 1935.
The Missile Defense Without Aircraft Carriers Demonstrated by the Six Freedom Edge 26 of Japan, the U.S., and South Korea
The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force, Republic of Korea Navy, and United States Navy conducted the joint military exercise 'Freedom Edge 26' from September 7-11, 2026, in the waters east and south of Jeju Island. Six surface combatants participated, with a focus on decentralized air defense and real-time data sharing. Notably, no U.S. aircraft carriers were present for the second consecutive year, highlighting a shift in operational strategy. The exercise follows North Korea's announcement of a new guided missile destroyer.
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All 5 of the Royal Navy’s In-Service Astute-Class Nuclear Attack Submarines Were Tied Up Alongside at the Same Time in Late June 2026, 1 of Them Stripped of Parts to Keep the Other 4 Running. The Class Will Take 28 Years to Deliver 7 Boats.
In late June 2026, all five in-service Astute-class submarines of the Royal Navy were tied up alongside in port, with one stripped of parts to maintain the others. This situation highlights significant logistical challenges and operational unavailability, as the fleet faced delays and budget issues over the years. The Royal Navy's attack submarine capability is currently compromised, with no submarines at sea during this period.
Constantly creating security anxiety to cover up the true intentions of military expansion, Japanese officials actually claim they want to build nuclear submarines again.
Japanese Defense Minister Koizumi Shinjiro indicated that Japan may pursue the development of nuclear-powered submarines amid discussions to revise its security policies. This statement reflects Japan's concerns over China's military capabilities and has sparked warnings from military experts about the potential disruption to regional stability. The call to reconsider Japan's non-nuclear principles is gaining traction domestically, raising alarms about the implications for regional security.
Sorry, F-35: South Korea Flew 6 KF-21 Boramae Prototypes on Nearly 1,600 Sorties Over 42 Months and Declared Development Complete in July 2026.
South Korea completed the development of the KF-21 Boramae in July 2026, with six prototypes flying nearly 1,600 sorties without accidents. The aircraft is entering mass production, with plans to deploy 120 units by 2032. The KF-21 features advanced systems, including AESA radar and a unique weapon loadout, positioning South Korea as a global defense leader.
Royal Navy Nuclear Missile Submarine HMS Vanguard Spent About 89 Months in Refit at Devonport. It Had Taken 83 Months to Build Her. Her 3 Sisters Averaged 42 Months for the Same Overhaul, and She Came Home in March From a 204-Day Patrol — the Longest in Royal Navy History.
HMS Vanguard returned to HM Naval Base Clyde in March 2024 after a record 204-day patrol, highlighting operational challenges faced by the Royal Navy's aging submarine fleet. The vessel's 89-month refit exceeded initial plans, and two recent missile tests failed, raising concerns about the reliability of Britain's nuclear deterrent. The Royal Navy's four Vanguard-class submarines are under increasing pressure as they age beyond their intended service life.
US, South Korean officials to broach thorny Hormuz mission at talks this week
U.S. and South Korean officials are holding high-level security talks this week to discuss a potential South Korean military deployment to the Strait of Hormuz. The discussions include the deployment of a P-8 Poseidon aircraft and a naval logistics support vessel, involving about 150 personnel. The South Korean government has not made a final decision, as any deployment requires approval from the National Assembly.
Textron, Merlin offer unmanned Cessna Skycourier for Pacific island resupply
Textron and Merlin Labs unveiled a new unmanned Cessna Skycourier aircraft concept aimed at enhancing logistics for Pacific island resupply. The aircraft features a payload capacity of three tons and a range of one thousand miles, designed to operate from short airstrips. This initiative seeks to complement existing Air Force transport capabilities by providing a low-cost solution for distributing supplies to remote island outposts.
Dong Jun holds talks with the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense of Laos.
Chinese Defense Minister General Dong Jun met with Laotian Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister General Khamleang in Beijing on October 14, 2023. They discussed enhancing military cooperation and strategic dialogue, emphasizing the importance of their bilateral relationship. The meeting followed the establishment of a '3+3' strategic dialogue mechanism earlier in June 2023.
China changes law to mobilize all resources in case of conflict. Should neighbors worry?
China's armed forces will mobilize all available civilian resources for military purposes under the revised National Defense Mobilization Law, effective October 1, 2023. This change raises concerns for Taiwan and the Philippines, as the People's Liberation Army (PLA) prepares for potential conflict in the Taiwan Strait and South China Sea. Analysts warn that this legal framework enhances China's military readiness and could lead to increased tensions in the region.
Taiwan Tests MQ-9B Drones and Extends Its Maritime Kill Chain
Taiwan has initiated operational testing of its MQ-9B SkyGuardian drones at Hualien Air Base, with the first two aircraft conducting flight tests on September 14, 2026. This move marks a significant step in Taiwan's efforts to enhance its maritime surveillance capabilities. The MQ-9B drones are intended for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions, contributing to Taiwan's defense strategy against potential threats.
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U.S. Navy’s San Diego heads out from Naval Base Guam
USS San Diego (LPD 22) departed Naval Base Guam on September 12, 2026, after completing routine operations in the U.S. 7th Fleet area. The amphibious transport dock is designed to transport approximately 700 Marines and is forward-deployed to Sasebo, Japan, enhancing U.S. military readiness in the Indo-Pacific region. The ship's movements are part of standard Navy operations, with Guam serving as a key logistics hub.
Ministry of Defense: Promoting Japan's "New Militarism" Will Push the Region into a Dangerous Vortex
Japan's Ground Self-Defense Force is conducting joint military exercises with the United States and Australia in Hokkaido and Kagoshima from September 8 to 24, featuring the U.S. 'Typhoon' medium-range missile system for the first time. The exercises are criticized as a step towards Japan's military expansion and a threat to regional stability.
Ministry of Defense Introduces the Situation of the China-Russia-Mongolia "Border Defense Cooperation - 2026" Joint Exercise
China, Russia, and Mongolia conducted a joint military exercise named 'Border Cooperation-2026' near Manzhouli, Inner Mongolia, on September 2-3, 2023. The exercise focused on preventing reconnaissance and sabotage activities at the border, involving live drills on joint planning, searching, and capturing operations. This marks the second iteration of such exercises, reflecting a deepening military collaboration among the three countries.
Ministry of Defense: China-Singapore "Maritime Cooperation - 2026" Joint Exercise Promotes Practical Cooperation Between Both Sides
China and Singapore conducted the 'Maritime Cooperation-2026' joint naval exercise in Zhanjiang, Guangdong from September 3 to 9, 2023. The exercise involved the Chinese missile frigate Dali and the Singaporean frigate Steadfast, featuring live-fire drills, maritime resupply, and joint search and rescue operations. This event marks the fifth joint exercise between the two nations' navies, aimed at enhancing cooperation and regional stability.
