Analysis & Reports

The U.S. military is set to deploy 3 Global Hawk UAVs to Yokota Air Base in Tokyo, Japan, starting in summer 2023. This deployment will involve approximately 150 personnel transferring from Andersen Air Force Base in Guam. The Global Hawk UAVs are designed for long-endurance reconnaissance missions.

DARPA is pursuing the development of advanced bunker-buster bombs to effectively target underground military facilities in Iran and North Korea. The agency aims to move beyond traditional bomb designs by manipulating shock waves to enhance penetration capabilities. The Request for Information has a deadline of June 26, indicating a push for innovative solutions in underground warfare.

Lockheed Martin was awarded a $180 million contract to provide maintenance and support for HIMARS and MLRS systems to foreign military customers. This contract, announced on May 28, 2023, will run through May 30, 2031, and aims to ensure operational readiness for countries including Ukraine, Poland, and Australia. The HIMARS system has significantly impacted modern warfare, particularly in Ukraine, leading to increased global demand for the artillery system.

The U.S. is pausing foreign military sales to Taiwan, impacting its air defense capabilities amid ongoing military operations in the Middle East. Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense reported increased PLA aircraft activity near the island, raising concerns about its defense readiness. The U.S. received 172 Patriot interceptors in FY 2026 but has expended over 1,000 in the Iran conflict, highlighting a significant logistical challenge for Taiwan's defense strategy.

Marcus ChenFri May 29 2026Loading...

Japan and the Philippines began negotiations on May 28, 2026, for the transfer of Abukuma-class destroyers and TC-90 training aircraft, alongside discussions on a military intelligence protection agreement (GSOMIA). This initiative aims to strengthen defense cooperation amid regional security concerns, particularly related to China's military activities. The effectiveness of the transferred equipment will rely on adequate training and support from Japan.

Tanaka TakashiFri May 29 2026Loading...

The ChatBearing AI system, developed by a team at Chongqing University, can automate bearing design processes for the PLA, reducing design time significantly. This advancement reflects a broader trend in integrating AI into military manufacturing, although challenges remain in the effective deployment of such technologies in operational settings.

Li MinghuiFri May 29 2026Loading...

Japan is preparing to enter formal discussions to export New FFM vessels to New Zealand in 2026, potentially impacting the New Zealand Navy's fleet renewal. The New FFM vessels are based on the improved Mogami-class design, which includes advanced weaponry and capabilities. This collaboration aims to strengthen maritime security in the South Pacific, involving both Japan and Australia in defense procurement efforts.

Tanaka TakashiFri May 29 2026Loading...

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...

China used electronic warfare against HNLMS De Ruyter near the Paracel Islands on May 27, 2023. The Chinese Southern Theater Command accused the Dutch frigate of entering Chinese-claimed waters, employing naval and air forces along with electronic interference. This incident underscores China's efforts to assert control in the South China Sea and test the operational resilience of European naval forces.

Marcus ChenThu May 28 2026Loading...

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.

The Royal Thai Navy acquired two Airbus C295 aircraft on 27 May 2026, enhancing its transport and surveillance capabilities. These aircraft will be based at U-Tapao air base in Sattahip, Thailand, and are equipped with an Electro-Optical/Infra-Red sensor suite for effective operations. The first delivery is expected by the end of 2028.

The Southern Theater Command of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) conducted warning electronic interference against the Dutch frigate "De Ruyter" after it entered the vicinity of the Paracel Islands on May 27, 2026. This marks the first public acknowledgment of such tactics by the PLA, indicating a shift in their operational approach in the South China Sea. The incident highlights the increasing complexity of naval interactions in the region, particularly with NATO forces.

Li MinghuiThu May 28 2026Loading...

The U.S. Navy plans to retire 46 ships, including 2 aircraft carriers, by 2031, reducing its fleet to 288 warships. Concurrently, China is expanding its naval capabilities, aiming for 9 aircraft carriers by 2035. This shift raises concerns about U.S. military readiness amid growing naval requirements and potential conflict with China.

North Korea tested three new weapons systems on May 26, 2026, including a lightweight multipurpose missile launcher, a 240mm guided rocket, and a tactical cruise missile. Kim Jong Un supervised the tests, which are part of a five-year national defense development plan, and emphasized the military advancements. The tactical cruise missile is claimed to have a range of 100 kilometers with AI guidance, enhancing North Korea's strike capabilities against South Korea.

South Korea unveiled a roadmap for developing nuclear-powered submarines, planning to launch the first vessel in the mid-2030s at its naval base in Jinhae. The 'Jang Bogo N Project' aims to enhance operational capabilities against North Korean threats and is expected to create over 40,000 jobs in the defense industry. The program will adhere to nuclear non-proliferation obligations while utilizing indigenous technologies.

The Australian government initiated a life-extension program for six Collins-class submarines at the ASC shipyard in Adelaide, starting with the Farncomb in late May 2023. This A$11 billion program is deemed high-risk by auditors, who raised concerns about delays and capability risks. The program aims to sustain submarine operations until new vessels are introduced in the 2030s and 2040s.

Hanwha Aerospace announced a joint development program with the Korea AeroSpace Administration on May 26, 2026, to produce a 4,500-pound-class turbofan engine for unmanned aerial vehicles and Collaborative Combat Aircraft. The program will focus on advanced production methods and aims to meet growing global demand for UAV platforms. Hanwha plans to invest approximately KRW 750 billion in this initiative, which includes the development of a high-bypass turbofan engine designed for military and civil use.

Hanwha Aerospace is developing a 4,500-pound-class turbofan engine for unmanned combat aircraft in South Korea, targeting completion by 2029 with a $500 million investment. This engine will feature a starter-generator for enhanced power supply and aims to establish domestic capabilities in military aviation. The project reflects a strategic shift towards integrating autonomous systems in military operations.

In June 2026, the Japan Self-Defense Forces and U.S. Marine Corps will conduct joint military exercises involving the deployment of Typhoon missile systems and HIMARS to Kano Air Base. The exercises will take place across various locations, including Kagoshima and Okinawa, and represent a strategic shift towards integrated operations between Japan and the U.S. military.

Tanaka TakashiTue May 26 2026Loading...

The U.S. has notified Japan of significant delays in the delivery of 400 Tomahawk cruise missiles, potentially extending the timeline by two years. This decision comes as the Pentagon prioritizes replenishing weapon stocks depleted during military operations against Iran. The delay could affect Japan's defense strategy and has raised concerns among neighboring countries regarding Japan's military expansion.