Analysis & Reports

The Zhanjiang Maritime Safety Administration announced military training in the Gulf of Tonkin from August 28 at 10:00 to August 29 at 20:00, prohibiting entry into the area.

USS Annapolis (SSN 760) conducted a photo exercise off the coast of Guam on December 17, 2025, as part of the U.S. Navy's ongoing operations in the Pacific. The Los Angeles-class submarines, particularly the upgraded 688I variant, have played a crucial role in U.S. naval strategy, with 62 units acquired and 23 upgraded versions in service. These submarines are known for their advanced weapon systems, including Tomahawk cruise missiles, and their significant influence on subsequent submarine designs.

The U.S. military purchased satellite images to identify Chinese aircraft carrier positions and Ecuadorian airstrips used for drug trafficking. The National Reconnaissance Office acquired commercial imagery to monitor naval assets and assist Ecuador in addressing narcotrafficking. Despite spending nearly $77 million on commercial space services, the Space Force faces challenges in fully utilizing these resources due to communication issues and perceived restrictions.

USS Boxer is undergoing maintenance and modernization in the Singapore Strait after a delayed return to service. BAE Systems has been contracted for $149.8 million to conduct the Selected Restricted Availability (SRA) maintenance. The ship is currently operational and has denied recent reports of supply shortages, maintaining a full complement of supplies for its crew.

The People's Liberation Army (PLA) Air Force conducted a joint airborne exercise with Belarusian forces in Hubei Province, China, in August 2023. The exercise, named 'Swift Eagle 2026', involved the Z-20K helicopter and focused on counter-terrorism and airborne assault skills. This marks a significant demonstration of the Z-20K's operational capabilities and readiness for international military collaboration.

China has been utilizing dummy aircraft for firefighter training at Jining Qufu Airport, which resemble the J-20 stealth fighter. This practice raises concerns among foreign analysts about China's military modernization and potential use of these dummies as decoys to mislead intelligence efforts. The growing number of these training devices indicates an expanding Chinese air force capable of matching U.S. military capabilities.

The People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) is set to produce 120 J-20 Mighty Dragons annually by late 2025, with 300 currently in service. In contrast, the U.S. has only 187 F-22 Raptors and over 1,345 F-35 Lightning IIs, highlighting a significant disparity in stealth fighter production capabilities. This situation raises strategic concerns regarding U.S. military readiness against China's growing air power.

Japan is procuring Terra B1 drones to enhance its air defense capabilities, with initial delivery expected by September 2026. The Acquisition, Technology and Logistics Agency (ATLA) signed a mass-production agreement following successful demonstrations. This move aims to address the threat posed by low-cost drones and improve logistical support for the Maritime Self-Defense Force.

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Japan's Ministry of Defense announced plans to develop an underwater-launched hypersonic missile as part of its fiscal 2027 defense program, marking a significant shift towards long-range counterstrike capabilities. This initiative includes funding for a vertical launch system for submarines and is part of a broader military buildup in response to regional threats from China and North Korea.

Thomas Global Systems completed the delivery of 16 M1A2 Abrams Immersive Tactical Trainers to the Australian Department of Defence, finalizing the acquisition phase of Project LAND 907 Armoured Combat programme.

Taiwan's legislature voted on a budget for military drones, with the government proposing NT$210 billion for 210,000 drones. The opposition countered with a budget of up to NT$240 billion, emphasizing the need for sustainable drone production amid potential Chinese aggression. Taiwan's military is preparing for scenarios where Chinese strikes could disrupt support systems, while domestic manufacturers aim to significantly increase drone production capacity by 2030.

The Philippines plans to enhance its military capabilities by acquiring more drones and guided-missile corvettes as part of its 2027 defense budget. The proposed budget allocates 50 billion pesos for modernization, while 142.95 billion pesos is designated for military pensions, limiting available funds. The Armed Forces of the Philippines aims to improve surveillance and operational capabilities in response to threats in the South China Sea, with a focus on unmanned systems for maritime awareness.

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Japan's Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics Agency (ATLA) signed a mass production agreement for the Terra B1 interceptor drone, aiming for deployment by 2027. This decision reflects a significant shift towards 3D printing technology in defense, allowing for rapid production and adaptation to threats. The procurement process was notably expedited, taking only three months, and production will be distributed across multiple sites to ensure resilience against potential attacks.

On August 27, the Chinese Ministry of National Defense criticized Japanese officials for visiting Yasukuni Shrine on August 15, labeling it a disrespectful act towards historical justice. The ministry condemned the Taiwanese government's lack of condemnation and accused it of being pro-Japanese. The report highlights the shrine's association with war criminals and calls for Taiwanese citizens to oppose separatism and foreign interference.

The Chinese Ministry of National Defense condemned the U.S. for delivering 2 F-16V fighter jets to Taiwan on August 27, 2023. China reiterated its opposition to U.S. arms sales to Taiwan, emphasizing the need to adhere to the One China principle. This delivery is part of Taiwan's military enhancement under the 'Phoenix Project.'

The U.S. canceled a joint amphibious landing exercise with South Korea, originally scheduled for next month, due to troop limitations stemming from the Iran war. This decision was communicated by the U.S. Marine Corps in June 2023. Ongoing discussions are taking place to explore the possibility of resuming the exercise in the future.

Japan's Ministry of Defense proposed a budget for FY2027 that emphasizes new combat methods, including the use of drones and artificial intelligence, and aims to enhance continuous response capabilities. The term 'new defense methods' was set aside due to opposition from lawmakers. The proposal is intended to be more understandable to the public and will be included in revised security documents by the end of the year.

The People's Liberation Army (PLA) successfully completed its 27th rotation of troops in Macau on August 26, 2023. Troops gathered at Zhuhai for a farewell ceremony before entering Macau, where a defense handover ceremony was held. This rotation, supported by the Macau SAR government, aims to strengthen military readiness and ensure stability in the region.

Chinese public vessels have approached Taiwan's eastern coast for three consecutive months, with 118 recorded instances in August 2023. This increase in activity, involving law enforcement and survey ships, suggests a strategic shift by Beijing to test Taiwan's response capabilities and redefine the operational environment. The ongoing presence of these vessels indicates a potential new normal in the region's maritime dynamics.

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The Philippines resupplied the grounded BRP Sierra Madre at Second Thomas Shoal on August 27, 2023, amid tensions with China. China claims the area as part of its territory and has warned the Philippines against reinforcing the position with construction materials. China demands the removal of the vessel and emphasizes its commitment to maintaining territorial sovereignty in the South China Sea.