Analysis & Reports

A new variant of the People's Liberation Army's Type 19 amphibious vehicle, equipped with laser weapons, was reported on August 29 in the Taiwan Strait. This development aims to enhance counter-drone capabilities during amphibious operations. The vehicle's introduction reflects the PLA's focus on integrating anti-drone technology into its landing forces, although the operational status remains unverified.

Li MinghuiSun Sep 13 2026Loading...

The Chinese People's Liberation Army emphasizes the importance of the Long March spirit in fostering unity and discipline within the military. In 2026, as the country faces new challenges, the report calls for the integration of these principles into military practices to strengthen national defense. The 90th anniversary of the Long March serves as a reminder of the historical significance of collective effort and political awareness in achieving military objectives.

Chinese and Lao medical teams conducted a joint humanitarian medical rescue exercise in Vientiane on September 12, 2026, successfully locating and treating 20 injured individuals. The exercise utilized drones, tracked unmanned vehicles, and a mobile ICU, integrating AI technology for medical decision-making. This operation aimed to enhance coordination and efficiency in emergency medical responses during natural disasters.

Naval personnel from the Northern Theater Command assisted a truck driver in Weifang who was in distress due to spilled cargo blocking the road. The soldiers quickly organized to clear the cargo and restore traffic flow. The driver later expressed gratitude in a handwritten letter, highlighting the strong bond between the military and the community.

U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptors are deployed from Kadena Air Base in Japan to maintain air power and readiness in the Pacific region between August and September 2023. This deployment serves as a deterrent amid increasing Chinese military activity around Taiwan. The F-22's supercruise capability enables it to sustain speeds above Mach 1.5 without using afterburners, enhancing operational efficiency.

The SR-71 Blackbird, operational from the mid-1960s to the late 1990s, faced over 4,000 missile launches from various nations, including North Vietnam and Libya, without sustaining any hits. Its defense strategy relied solely on speed, allowing it to evade all missile threats. The only confirmed missile engagement occurred in 1981 over Korea, where the missiles missed the aircraft.

China is testing a new Type 19 amphibious combat vehicle equipped with a laser turret for counter-drone defense during potential operations against Taiwan in 2026. This development aims to enhance the PLA's capabilities in amphibious assaults by providing immediate drone defense for forward units. The vehicle is linked to the PLA's Eastern Theatre Command and the 73rd Group Army, indicating its relevance in a Taiwan contingency.

Marcus ChenSat Sep 12 2026Loading...

Capt. Michael Cloninger of the 90th Fighter Squadron successfully executed a belly landing of an F-22 on September 18, 2024, after losing a landing wheel during a tribute flight in the Central Command area. His actions earned him the Air Force’s top flight safety award, presented by Chief of Staff Gen. Ken Wilsbach. Cloninger's successful landing ensured the safety of himself and the aircraft, which was later recovered.

Capt. Michael Cloninger of the 90th Fighter Squadron safely executed a belly landing of his F-22 on September 18, 2024, after losing a landing wheel during flight in the Central Command area. His successful maneuver earned him the 2025 Koren Kolligian Jr. Trophy, recognizing his extraordinary airmanship and teamwork in managing the emergency situation.

Chinese military researchers tested the effectiveness of large-caliber guns against drone swarms using 30 Russian-made Lancet-3 drones in a simulation. The study concluded that while artillery alone cannot fully defend against drone swarms, it could be part of a layered defense strategy. The research was conducted by the People’s Liberation Army Dalian Naval Academy in Dalian, China, and suggests a reevaluation of battleship capabilities in modern naval warfare.

The Dalian Maritime Safety Administration issued a navigation warning for military operations in the Bohai Strait and northern Yellow Sea from September 13 at 16:00 to September 27 at 16:00, prohibiting entry into these areas.

Japan is developing tactical AI satellites for military applications, with plans to conduct space testing by 2030. The defense budget for fiscal year 2027 emphasizes AI and unmanned systems, totaling approximately 8.89 trillion yen. This initiative marks a significant shift towards an unmanned and intelligent combat framework, involving collaboration with local defense industries.

Japan is upgrading 68 of its F-15J fighter jets with advanced systems, including AESA radar and electronic warfare capabilities, as part of the F-15 Japan Super Interceptor program initiated in February 2022. The Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) has fielded 213 F-15Js and F-15DJs, making it the largest operator outside the U.S. Air Force. The upgrades are expected to enhance the aircraft's performance significantly by 2030.

China has mounted an electromagnetic railgun on the Haiyangshan, a Type 072III landing ship, and has conducted at-sea testing since December 2017. The railgun is capable of firing projectiles at hypersonic speeds, marking a significant advancement in naval weaponry. In contrast, the U.S. Navy spent $500 million on a similar program but canceled it in 2021 after failing to deploy a working model. This development positions China as a leader in electromagnetic launch technology.

Taiwan is requesting NT$145.7 billion to enhance its military capabilities, focusing on 40000 attack drones and the Ching Tien II missile with a range of 2000 kilometers. The budget also allocates funds for replenishing ammunition and developing uncrewed systems. This initiative aims to improve Taiwan's resilience against potential Chinese military actions, ensuring sustained operations during a conflict.

Marcus ChenSat Sep 12 2026Loading...

Nuclear-armed states expanded their arsenals in 2025, with the global count of nuclear warheads reaching approximately 12,187. The United States and Russia continue to lead in warhead numbers, while China and India also increased their stockpiles. The expiration of the New START treaty in February 2026 has reduced transparency regarding nuclear deployments. Tensions in South Asia escalated with significant conflict between India and Pakistan.

China's nuclear stockpile increased to 620 warheads as of January 2026, with new systems displayed at the September 2025 Victory Day parade in Beijing. The Chinese Armed Forces are mating warheads with missiles during exercises, indicating a shift in their nuclear posture. SIPRI estimates that China may have deployed up to 34 warheads with operational forces, while the majority remains in storage.

The U.S. Air Force modified the Foreign Military Sales agreement for the KC-46A Pegasus tanker, increasing the ceiling from $5.7 billion to $19.1 billion. This change allows for expanded sales to allies like Japan and Israel without needing new contracts for each order. The contract will remain active until April 28, 2035, supporting ongoing foreign military sales and logistics for the KC-46A.

The 2026 Taipei Security Dialogue emphasized the challenges of sustaining large ground forces in Taiwan, focusing on the strategic role of the People's Liberation Army Navy's 054A frigates in establishing maritime corridors. The discussion highlighted the need for effective unmanned systems to counter threats and maintain naval operations in the Taiwan Strait, particularly in light of Japan's military developments.

Li MinghuiSat Sep 12 2026Loading...

On August 22, the Chinese Navy's 054A frigate conducted naval operations in the East China Sea, including combat training and emergency response. This deployment enhances China's operational capabilities and poses challenges for Japan's Self-Defense Forces in maintaining anti-submarine warfare effectiveness. The 054A frigate, with a displacement of approximately 4,000 tons, is equipped for multi-role operations, including anti-air and anti-ship missions.

Tanaka TakashiSat Sep 12 2026Loading...