Analysis & Reports

On November 5, 1960, the Chinese Rocket Army successfully launched the Dongfeng-1 missile from Jiuquan, marking a significant milestone in China's missile development. Over the past 66 years, the Dongfeng missile family has evolved, achieving capabilities from short-range to intercontinental missiles. The recent introduction of the Dongfeng-61 into regular training reflects China's advancements in missile technology and operational readiness.

On November 5, 1960, the Chinese military successfully launched the Dongfeng-1 missile, marking a pivotal moment in China's military history as it was the first domestically produced surface-to-surface missile. This event concluded China's previous lack of missile capabilities and initiated the development of the Dongfeng missile family, which has become a cornerstone of China's nuclear deterrent. The launch was the result of rigorous scientific efforts and commitment from military engineers.

The Dongfeng-61 missile has been officially deployed to the Rocket Force of the People's Liberation Army in China. It was first showcased during a military parade on September 3, 2025, and has completed all necessary development and testing phases. The missile is now undergoing regular training exercises, indicating its operational readiness and enhancing China's nuclear capabilities.

The European International Naval Equipment Exhibition commenced on November 3, 2023, in Paris, showcasing over 700 exhibitors, including 60 focused on unmanned systems. The event emphasizes the growing importance of AI and unmanned technology in naval warfare, reflecting a shift in military capabilities. The global military shipbuilding market is projected to reach $122 billion in the next two years, highlighting increased investment in naval defense.

The Chinese military increased its activity in the Taiwan Strait, with 49 aircraft reported in a single day, including 31 crossing the median line. The People's Liberation Army Navy deployed over 100 vessels in the Western Pacific, with the Fujian and Liaoning aircraft carriers operating in the region. This coordinated military presence suggests a shift towards a multi-directional pressure strategy against Taiwan.

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The Fujian aircraft carrier was officially commissioned on November 5, 2025, marking a significant milestone for the People's Liberation Army Navy. Over the past year, it has conducted various trials and training exercises, including operations in the Taiwan Strait and South China Sea. The carrier's advanced electromagnetic catapult system enhances its capabilities, allowing for a diverse range of aircraft operations.

On November 3, 464 members of the 24th Chinese Peacekeeping Force were awarded the UN 'Peace Medal' during a ceremony in Sinai Village, Lebanon. The peacekeepers have been actively engaged in various tasks, including unexploded ordnance clearance and humanitarian assistance, amidst ongoing conflicts in the region. Their efforts have included significant construction projects and donations to local communities.

The U.S. Army is enhancing its training with long-range artillery and missile systems from Hokkaido to the Philippines, focusing on decentralized deployment. Japan's Type 12 missile capabilities are being upgraded to extend their range significantly. This military collaboration aims to improve deterrence against Chinese naval forces in the region, emphasizing the importance of logistics and rapid decision-making in military operations.

Tanaka TakashiThu Nov 05 2026Loading...

The Fujian aircraft carrier, commissioned on November 5, 2022, has successfully completed cross-sea training exercises in the Taiwan Strait, South China Sea, East China Sea, and Yellow Sea. It has demonstrated capabilities for long-range maritime operations and is equipped with an electromagnetic catapult system. This marks a significant advancement in China's naval capabilities as it transitions into a three-carrier fleet.

The Fujian aircraft carrier was officially commissioned into the People's Liberation Army Navy on November 5, 2025, in Sanya. This marks a significant milestone as it is China's first electromagnetic catapult aircraft carrier, enhancing the naval capabilities of the Chinese military. The carrier is equipped with advanced aircraft, including J-15T and J-35, and has a full displacement of over 80,000 tons, indicating a leap in China's naval technology and operational capacity.

A certain brigade of the Southern Theater Army conducted live-fire training exercises recently in an unfamiliar outdoor area, utilizing anti-tank rocket launchers and individual flame throwers. Soldiers practiced operational procedures and engaged in simulated combat scenarios to enhance their combat readiness and capabilities.

Two U.S. airmen died in non-hostile incidents last week, raising American fatalities in the Iran conflict to 23. One airman died in the U.S. Central Command area, while the other died in the United States. Their deaths are classified as non-combat related, with one under investigation. The Pentagon has categorized these incidents under Overseas Operations.

The People's Liberation Army (PLA) mobilized over 100 ships and 22 aircraft in the Pacific, indicating potential preparations for a blockade against Taiwan. On November 4, 2026, Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense reported these movements, highlighting a significant increase in PLA naval activity. The mobilization suggests a strategic shift towards testing blockade capabilities rather than an immediate assault.

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North Korea fired several missiles towards the Sea of Japan on 4 November 2026, marking its fourth missile test in a month. Kim Yo Jong rejected dialogue with the United States, emphasizing North Korea's military leverage. The missile launches are part of a broader strategy to assert military capability while maintaining political pressure on the U.S. and its allies.

Tanaka TakashiWed Nov 04 2026Loading...

A U.S.-assisted drone strike targeted an ELN position in Venezuela in November 2026, marking a significant shift in U.S. counterdrug operations. Colombian forces deployed 1,200 soldiers to the Venezuelan border, indicating increased military pressure in the region. Venezuelan authorities reportedly cooperated with the U.S. in this operation, although details regarding casualties and specific targets remain unverified.

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Israeli Defense Forces and Shin Bet conducted an operation on November 1 in Gaza City, resulting in the death of Jamal Abu Said, the head of Hamas military intelligence operations. Abu Said was responsible for planning attacks against Israeli forces and civilians and held several senior roles within Hamas.

Houthi forces launched ballistic missiles and drones at Riyadh International Airport and military facilities in Saudi Arabia on November 4, causing significant damage and casualties. The attacks included strikes on radar facilities and military bases near the Yemen-Saudi border, as well as missile strikes on government troops in Jawf province. The Houthi spokesperson warned that Riyadh airport is now unsafe for international flights, urging airlines and travelers to avoid Saudi airspace, except for Mecca and Medina.

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps shot down a U.S. MQ-1 drone over Geshm Island on November 4. The Iranian military reported that their advanced air defense system tracked and intercepted the drone, amid increased reconnaissance activities by enemy forces. This incident underscores Iran's assertion of control over the Strait of Hormuz.

Naval Group unveiled an 8,000-ton drone carrier concept in Paris, designed to deploy various types of drones for military operations. The carrier will have a crew of 150 and is expected to reach speeds of 30 knots. It features over 100 vertical launching system silos and an electromagnetic gun. Additionally, Naval Group signed a contract to develop an unmanned combat underwater vehicle demonstrator for the French Navy.

The Russian Navy has canceled the modernization plan for the 'Peter the Great' nuclear-powered cruiser, the only active Kirov-class vessel, due to high costs and its deteriorating condition. This decision follows the lengthy modernization of its sister ship, the 'Admiral Nakhimov'. The retirement of 'Peter the Great' highlights the aging fleet of Soviet-era naval vessels as the Russian Navy shifts focus to smaller surface ships and maintains its underwater nuclear submarine capabilities.