Analysis & Reports

The U.S. Air Force added $826 million to its missile contract with Lockheed Martin, raising the total to $10.48 billion for the production of JASSM and LRASM missiles. This modification was issued by the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center at Eglin Air Force Base on June 27, 2026, with completion expected by July 31, 2030. The contract supports ongoing production and includes deliveries to allied nations under Foreign Military Sales agreements.

Japan and South Korea are modernizing their naval forces to counter China's naval expansion and North Korea's missile threats. Japan is constructing two Aegis System Equipped Vessels and converting Izumo-class destroyers into aircraft carriers. South Korea is set to develop nuclear-powered submarines and new destroyers, enhancing its naval capabilities in the region.

The Chinese Air Force showcased four aircraft types, including the KJ-500 early warning aircraft and J-16 fighter jet, at the Egypt Airshow on September 8. This marked the first international display of these aircraft, highlighting China's advancements in military capabilities. The event took place at Alamein International Airport, emphasizing military cooperation between China and Egypt.

Japan's Onomichi Shipbuilding Company will begin mass production of unmanned surface vessels intended for military logistics and disaster relief. The vessels are designed to operate in shallow waters and will utilize advanced sensors and AI for navigation. The production aims to establish a system capable of producing 30 to 50 vessels by 2028, aligning with Japan's strategic defense initiatives.

On September 8, 2023, the Chinese Air Force displayed four aircraft, including the KJ-500, Y-20A, J-16, and Z-20K, at the Egypt International Airshow in Alamein. This marks the second participation of the Chinese Air Force in this event, showcasing their advancements in military aviation and capabilities for international military cooperation.

A Chinese Chengdu J-20 stealth fighter was filmed flying in 'beast mode' over China in 2024, carrying 8 PL-15 missiles on external hardpoints and 6 additional missiles internally. This configuration compromises its stealth capabilities but allows for a significant weapons loadout. The J-20 is China's most advanced fighter jet, designed mainly for air superiority.

Lockheed Martin Australia has been awarded a $950 million AUD contract to enhance the AIR6500 joint air battle management system, improving Australia's air and missile defense capabilities. This project will integrate various defense platforms, including the F-35A Lightning II and NASAMS, into a unified defense framework. The Australian Department of Defence announced this as part of a larger $2.4 billion AUD investment to modernize air surveillance and defense operations.

The Australian Government announced a A$2.4bn ($1.7bn) investment to modernize its air and missile defense systems. This investment aims to enhance the country's military capabilities in response to evolving security challenges.

Chinese researchers at the China Aerodynamics Research and Development Centre analyzed the B-21 Raider's aerodynamic characteristics using public imagery and the PADJ-X simulation software. They claimed to identify potential weaknesses in the bomber's design, suggesting that small configuration changes could improve performance. However, the findings are theoretical and should be viewed with skepticism due to the lack of classified data.

Taiwan proposed an additional $4.6 billion in defense spending for 2026 to enhance military readiness amid rising tensions with China. The head of the American Institute in Taiwan warned that a conflict would be disastrous, emphasizing the need for Taiwan to demonstrate its capability to deter a quick victory by the People's Liberation Army. The funding aims to improve Taiwan's military inventory, including F-16V fighters and air-defense systems, while also addressing cyber threats.

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The Chinese military is evaluating humanoid robots for combat and military support, with over 100 procurement records identified as of September 7, 2026. These robots are intended for tasks such as reconnaissance and logistics, although large-scale deployment has not yet occurred. The focus is on integrating these systems into existing military frameworks rather than immediate combat roles.

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The 73rd Group Army conducted coastal swimming training to enhance soldiers' operational skills, while the 77th Group Army executed live-fire artillery exercises in the Gobi Desert. The training focused on improving coordination and effectiveness in challenging environments, with real-time adjustments made during operations. Both exercises aimed to strengthen combat readiness and operational capabilities.

Japan is planning to operate a surveillance network of over 100 satellites by 2031 to enhance maritime monitoring and improve the targeting capabilities of its Type 25 anti-ship missiles. The initiative includes a budget allocation of 283.2 billion yen for satellite development in fiscal year 2025. This network aims to strengthen Japan's self-defense capabilities and reduce reliance on U.S. military satellite information.

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China operates around 21 Type 039 Yuan-class submarines, which are designed for undersea warfare and can remain submerged for extended periods. These submarines are equipped with advanced weaponry, including Yu-6 torpedoes and YJ-18 missiles, and are strategically positioned in chokepoints in the East and South China Seas. The Yuan-class submarines represent a significant enhancement in China's naval capabilities, allowing for effective patrolling and ambush tactics against enemy vessels.

The U.S. Air Force's F-15EX Eagle II, tested over the Gulf of Mexico, demonstrated its capabilities in air superiority and advanced weaponry integration. It can reach speeds of Mach 2.5 and is equipped with cutting-edge technology, including the Advanced Display Core Processor II. The aircraft is designed to complement fifth-generation fighters and enhance air combat effectiveness.

The 'Orient Shield' joint military exercise involving Japan, the U.S., and Australia commenced on September 8 in Hokkaido and Kagoshima Prefecture, set to continue until September 24. Approximately 3700 personnel are participating, utilizing the Type 12 missile system and HIMARS for naval engagement training. The exercise has sparked domestic concerns in Japan regarding constitutional implications and potential permanent deployment of military assets.

The USS North Carolina and USS Washington, two North Carolina-class battleships, were constructed during the treaty era and served in the Pacific during World War II. USS Washington notably sank an enemy battleship in a one-on-one engagement, while USS North Carolina survived a torpedo hit due to enhanced armor. Both ships played significant roles in naval operations, showcasing heavy firepower and resilience against enemy threats.

U.S. and Indonesian forces conducted a live-fire exercise at Baturaja Combat Training Center on September 4 and 7, 2026, as part of the Super Garuda Shield exercise. The event involved approximately 4,700 personnel from 21 countries, utilizing various rocket artillery systems and combat aircraft. This exercise aimed to enhance cooperation and operational effectiveness between the U.S. and Indonesian military forces.

Japan is expanding its satellite surveillance network to over 100 satellites to enhance counter-strike capabilities and target identification. The Ministry of Defense aims to complete an initial network by the end of FY2027, with a total operational network planned for FY2031. This initiative includes a budget allocation of 283.2 billion yen for FY2025 and aims to improve maritime surveillance in the Pacific region.

The U.S. Air Force is investing $10.9 billion to modernize the F-22 Raptor stealth fighter to maintain its operational relevance against evolving threats, particularly from China's J-20 stealth fighter. The modernization includes upgrades to stealth coatings, avionics, and sensors, ensuring the F-22 can still compete in future conflicts. However, the aircraft's Cold War-era design limits its capabilities compared to newer fighters. The Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) program is underway to develop a sixth-generation fighter to eventually replace the F-22.