Analysis & Reports

A Dutch naval helicopter illegally intruded into Chinese airspace over the Xisha Islands, prompting the Chinese People's Liberation Army Southern Theater Command to take defensive measures to drive it away. The incident was reported on June 28, 2023, with official statements highlighting the violation of Chinese sovereignty. Military experts noted the provocative nature of the Dutch actions and the necessity of the Chinese response.

Japan and the Philippines agreed to accelerate defense equipment talks on May 28, 2023, involving the transfer of six Abukuma-class destroyers and TC-90 aircraft to the Philippine Navy. This agreement aims to enhance military cooperation and maritime domain awareness in the South China Sea. However, the Philippine Navy faces challenges in crew training and operational availability of the transferred ships.

Marcus ChenThu May 28 2026Loading...

The U.S. Armed Forces will deploy the Typhoon missile system at the Kanoya Air Base in Kagoshima, Japan, from June to September 2023 for joint military exercises. Russia's Foreign Ministry has condemned this action, stating it poses a direct threat to the security of Russia's Far East border and undermines stability in the Asia-Pacific region.

The Indonesian Navy training ship 'Bima Suci' completed its friendly visit to Shanghai and departed from a military port on May 28. Over 100 personnel from the Eastern Theater Command Navy were present to farewell the ship. The visit included activities such as ship tours and receptions, with the captain expressing a desire for enhanced cooperation between the Indonesian and Chinese navies.

China's People's Liberation Army will send a delegation of experts to participate in the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore from May 29 to 31. The delegation, led by Professor Meng Xiangqing, includes scholars from the National Defense University and the Academy of Military Sciences. This participation underscores China's commitment to defense cooperation in the Asia-Pacific region.

China's Ministry of National Defense criticized the U.S. for planning to deploy the THAAD missile system in Kagoshima, Japan, for joint exercises from June to September. The ministry stated that this deployment undermines regional security and stability, urging the U.S. and Japan to respect the security concerns of regional nations. China views the THAAD system as an offensive weapon that escalates military tensions in the area.

Canada announced the purchase of six GlobalEye early warning and control aircraft from Saab, valued at over $5 billion CAN, to enhance military capabilities and support domestic defense production. Prime Minister Mark Carney made the announcement on May 27, 2025, at the CANSEC defense trade show in Ottawa. The GlobalEye will strengthen Canada's surveillance capabilities, particularly in the Arctic, and at least one-third of the aircraft orders for allies will be manufactured in Canada.

A Chinese soldier stood still during the passage of Air Force One in Beijing, symbolizing the confidence and determination of the People's Liberation Army. This act has been widely shared on social media, reflecting the military's strength and unity.

During President Trump's visit to China, U.S. Secretary of Defense Mark Esper engaged in discussions with Chinese Defense Minister Wei Fenghe about military relations and shared concerns. The U.S. Deputy Secretary of Defense is also set to visit China to facilitate future communications between the two nations' defense leaders.

On May 28, 2023, Chinese and Pakistani military officials emphasized the strengthening of military cooperation between the two nations. They highlighted successful joint exercises and training programs, reflecting a deep-rooted friendship and strategic partnership. Both countries expressed commitment to mutual support on core interests and aimed to elevate their military relations to a higher level, contributing to global security and development.

On May 28, 2023, the Chinese Defense Ministry addressed claims by the Philippine military regarding security threats in the South China Sea. The spokesperson criticized the Philippines for provocative actions and emphasized China's determination to uphold its territorial rights and ensure regional stability.

China's Ministry of National Defense publicly opposed U.S. arms sales to Taiwan during a press conference on May 28, 2023, emphasizing the need for the U.S. to handle Taiwan issues with caution. The U.S. is currently delaying a $14 billion arms sale to Taiwan, while also proposing a $1 billion initiative to enhance Taiwan's defense capabilities.

On May 28, 2023, the U.S. and Japan conducted joint military exercises near Taiwan, aimed at enhancing regional deterrence and emergency response capabilities. China's defense spokesperson criticized this military cooperation, labeling it as provocative and a threat to regional peace. The exercises took place just 110 kilometers from Taiwan, raising tensions in the area.

Japan's Ministry of Defense announced the deployment of low-orbit military reconnaissance satellites and measures to enhance its space defense capabilities. This expansion is seen as a move away from its pacifist constitution, raising concerns about the militarization of space and potential arms races. The international community is urged to remain vigilant against these developments.

During a press conference on the 28th, Taiwan's defense ministry responded to U.S. President Trump's comments about Taiwan's independence, stating that such independence is incompatible with peace in the Taiwan Strait. Lai Ching-te, Taiwan's leader, asserted that there is no issue of 'Taiwan independence', despite previously identifying as a 'pragmatic independence worker'.

China and Russia will deepen military cooperation, enhancing mutual trust and conducting joint exercises and patrols. This commitment was reaffirmed during a press conference on May 28, 2023, marking the 30th anniversary of their strategic partnership. Both nations aim to support each other on core interests and maintain global and regional security.

The Chinese Defense Ministry criticized Japan's defense policy during a press conference on May 28, 2023, labeling its military expansion as a return to militarism and a threat to regional stability. The ministry urged the international community to recognize Japan's 'deceptive diplomacy' and called for collective action to curb its militaristic tendencies.

On May 28, the Chinese Ministry of National Defense commented on Taiwan's independence, stating it is incompatible with peace in the Taiwan Strait. The spokesperson criticized Taiwan's Lai Ching-te for claiming there is no issue of independence, labeling it a disguise for failed independence efforts. The ministry emphasized the importance of maintaining stability in the region and dismissed the notion of relying on the U.S. for independence.

Japan's destroyer Ikazuchi participated in joint naval exercises with the Philippine Navy and U.S. Coast Guard in the South China Sea on April 23, 2026. Discussions on the GSOMIA negotiations were a key focus during Philippine President Marcos's visit to Japan, emphasizing enhanced defense cooperation. The report highlights the operationalization of defense agreements between Japan and the Philippines.

Tanaka TakashiThu May 28 2026Loading...

Australia published its 2026 National Defense Strategy in April 2026, identifying China as the primary threat to Indo-Pacific security. The strategy emphasizes military readiness, self-reliance, and increased defense spending, aiming for 3% of GDP by 2033-34. Australia is enhancing its naval capabilities and strengthening alliances in the region.