Analysis & Reports

In February 2025, U.S. Navy F/A-18 Super Hornets successfully landed on the French aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle during joint exercises in the Philippine Sea. This marked a significant demonstration of interoperability between U.S. and French naval forces, as the Charles de Gaulle is equipped with American-designed catapults and arresting gear. The exercise included cross-deck operations with French Rafale Ms and E-2C Hawkeyes, showcasing the collaborative capabilities of both navies.

On October 26, 2006, a Chinese Song-class submarine surfaced undetected five miles from the USS Kitty Hawk during military exercises in the East China Sea. The submarine was only detected after surfacing by a routine surveillance flight, raising significant concerns about U.S. anti-submarine capabilities. This incident highlighted the effectiveness of the submarine's stealth and the challenges faced by U.S. naval forces in detecting such threats.

Taiwan's military conducted the Han Kuang 42 exercise starting August 5, 2023, mobilizing 20,000 reservists and implementing new operational protocols. The exercise included throttling civilian internet access to simulate conditions during a potential Chinese assault, testing command-and-control structures, and relocating military assets out of Taipei. These actions reflect Taiwan's shift towards realistic military preparedness in response to perceived threats from China.

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USS Dallas conducted simulated torpedo attacks against HMS Illustrious during a naval exercise in the Gulf of Oman in 2013. The exercise involved multiple naval units, including the Type 23 frigate HMS Westminster and the destroyer USS Bulkeley. Although the Royal Navy confirmed the simulated attacks, no official ruling declared the carrier as 'sunk'.

Four Iowa-Class battleships, including USS Missouri and USS New Jersey, conducted bombardment operations in Korea from September 1950 to July 27, 1953, firing over 14,700 16-inch shells. USS New Jersey suffered a direct hit, resulting in one sailor's death, while USS Wisconsin was also hit, injuring three sailors. The battleships focused on targeting coastal infrastructure and supporting United Nations forces.

The 74th Group Army Engineering Brigade conducted live demolition operations in the Southern Theater Command to test their combat capabilities. The soldiers executed the task with high standards, showcasing their skills and composure. Various demolition devices were employed during the operation, which was marked by successful outcomes.

A South Korean K1E1 tank caught fire during a live-fire training exercise in Pocheon early Thursday. The crew evacuated safely, and no injuries were reported. The incident is under investigation to determine the cause of the fire, which occurred in the engine compartment of the tank.

Japan's government issued a warning regarding the escalating military cooperation between China and Russia, as detailed in its 2026 Defense White Paper. The report highlights joint military exercises and operations occurring near Japan, marking a significant shift in the security landscape. Japan identifies China as the greatest strategic challenge, emphasizing the implications for its defense policy and regional stability.

Indian Air Force Rafales participated in Exercise Pitch Black in Australia from July 20 to August 7, 2026, alongside 100 aircraft and 2,500 personnel from 20 nations. The exercise included mid-air refueling operations with an Australian tanker, marking a significant interoperability achievement. This iteration was the largest in the exercise's history, showcasing advanced multinational air combat training.

On August 4, 2023, the People's Liberation Army showcased an H-6N bomber carrying a JL-1 missile, escorted by two J-20 stealth fighters, in a military documentary. This marks the first public display of the JL-1 missile, which is believed to be a significant advancement in China's air-launched missile capabilities. The event highlights the integration of advanced aircraft in China's military operations and suggests a move towards greater transparency regarding its strategic deterrent capabilities.

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The People's Liberation Army conducted joint maritime and air exercises near Huangyan Island on August 7 in response to the Philippines' recent submission of a maritime map claiming the area. China asserts its sovereignty over Huangyan Island, viewing Philippine actions as illegal provocations. The exercises serve as a warning against further infringements on Chinese territorial claims.

China and Belarus will conduct a joint airborne training exercise named 'Shen Ying-2026' in Hubei in mid to late August 2023. The exercise will focus on urban counter-terrorism operations, including reconnaissance and defense maneuvers. This marks the fourth joint training event between the two nations' armed forces, aimed at enhancing their operational capabilities and cooperation.

Seasats is concentrating on small unmanned surface vessels (USVs) for military applications, with its Lightfish model supporting the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps, and Special Forces. Recently, a Lightfish vessel successfully spotted a Chinese warship near the Philippines. The U.S. Navy is adopting maritime drones more extensively, indicating a shift in operational strategy towards smaller, more agile platforms.

Chinese military aircraft illuminated Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force patrol aircraft with lasers for approximately 30 minutes over the Pacific Ocean near Okinawa on August 4, 2023. Japan's defense white paper asserts that China's military activities represent a current reality, prompting a reevaluation of Japan's defense strategies. The report also highlights the growing military cooperation between China and Russia, emphasizing the need for Japan to prepare for long-term military engagements.

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The Chinese military conducted military training exercises in parts of the Gulf of Tonkin from August 7, 7:00 AM to August 8, 1:00 PM, prohibiting vessels from entering the area during this time.

Zhao Gangliang, a reconnaissance team leader in the Southern Theater Army, achieved full marks in all 11 military sports training assessments in 2024, becoming the first soldier in his unit to earn the 'Special Level 1' certification. His score improved from 454 to 474, reflecting his dedication to rigorous training and meeting new military standards.

USS Constellation (CV-64) operated as a U.S. Navy aircraft carrier from 1961 to 2003, participating in key military operations including the Vietnam War and Persian Gulf conflicts. The carrier was involved in the Gulf of Tonkin Incident and supported operations during the Iran-Iraq War and Operation Desert Shield. Over its service, it launched thousands of missions and was recognized for its adaptability and combat record.

The Northern Theater Command Navy conducted realistic training exercises in the Yellow Sea with the Dongying and Xinjie ships. The five-day exercises focused on anti-aircraft fire, joint anti-submarine operations, and rescue operations for damaged vessels. This training aims to improve combat readiness and operational effectiveness.

In late June 2026, all five in-service Astute-class submarines of the Royal Navy were tied up alongside at Devonport and not operational. The submarines faced significant logistical challenges, including a lack of available maintenance facilities and personnel, which has severely impacted their readiness. The Royal Navy's focus on maintaining Vanguard-class submarines has further strained the availability of the Astute-class fleet, leading to a prolonged recovery plan.

The F-111 Aardvark, known as 'the Pig', served in multiple military operations from 1964 to 1998, including the Vietnam War, Operation El Dorado Canyon, and Operation Desert Storm. It was recognized for its combat effectiveness, achieving a notable safety record and destroying over 1,500 enemy armored vehicles during the Gulf War. The aircraft was retired from service by the U.S. Air Force in 1998 and by the Royal Australian Air Force in 2010.