Analysis & Reports

On July 30, 2023, a J-15 carrier-based fighter jet experienced an engine emergency during takeoff and was successfully stopped less than 5 meters from the edge of the carrier deck in Liaoning Province, China. Pilot Yang Yong managed to return safely with complete test data after facing a cabin pressure loss. This incident highlights the operational capabilities and challenges faced by China's naval aviation.

The Air Force Aviation Brigade and Armed Police Falcon Assault Team are engaged in ongoing educational training in China to enhance military readiness. They are correcting misconceptions about performance metrics and focusing on practical training to improve operational effectiveness. A total of 114 training deficiencies have been identified and are being addressed to ensure combat readiness.

Chinese military units are maintaining high readiness levels and enhancing their combat capabilities through innovation and rigorous training. The 74th Group Army and Airborne Troops are actively breaking traditional combat thinking, focusing on technology to improve effectiveness. The Rocket Force emphasizes the importance of training for missile delivery, while Coast Guard units have successfully conducted rescue operations in their designated areas.

The Air Force will transport newly admitted flight students to the Air Force Aviation University using multiple Yun-20B aircraft on July 31 and August 1, 2026. This operation marks the first use of the Yun-20B for this purpose, reflecting improvements in the recruitment process and the increasing quality of candidates. Students will be transported from six boarding points across China, with their families also invited to join the flight.

Thunder Tiger showcased AI-powered attack boats, the Sea Shark 600 and 800, in Dapeng Bay, Taiwan, on July 30, 2026. The boats utilize Hivemind autonomy software from U.S.-based Shield AI. Thunder Tiger's chairman emphasized the need for government support in defense budgeting to enhance Taiwan's maritime security, especially given its geographic vulnerabilities.

Australia is utilizing four FLEX FIGHTER armored security vessels operated by Penguin International Limited to enhance its maritime border protection efforts. This arrangement, part of a Public-Private Partnership, addresses the Australian Border Force's operational challenges, including maintenance backlogs and staffing shortages. The vessels are Australian-flagged and crewed, providing immediate support while the government builds new patrol boats.

On July 20, a People's Liberation Army helicopter and drone crossed the so-called 'Taiwan Strait median line' and conducted activities for over nine hours. The Chinese defense spokesperson emphasized that Taiwan is part of China and rejected the legitimacy of the median line, labeling Taiwan's defense claims as mere posturing.

The People's Liberation Army (PLA) is constructing models of key government buildings in Taiwan for realistic training exercises, highlighting its readiness for combat. Taiwan's defense department has responded by warning of significant threats posed by the PLA and calling for public support for defense budgets. The PLA maintains a stance of being always ready to engage in combat to protect national sovereignty.

The U.S. Coast Guard issued a market survey in July 2026 for counter-drone submarine technology to address threats posed by Chinese underwater drones HSU-001 and AJX-002. This initiative reflects a shift in focus towards securing ports and coastal areas against smaller, quieter unmanned underwater vehicles. The Coast Guard's request emphasizes the need for effective detection and countermeasures, indicating a significant evolution in U.S. military strategy in the Western Pacific.

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The Chinese Navy countered provocations from the Japanese Self-Defense Forces in recent naval engagements. An exclusive audio recording captured the Chinese Navy's efforts to correct Japanese misconceptions regarding militarism. The incident highlights ongoing tensions between China and Japan in maritime operations.

Over 4000 Taiwanese military volunteers are set to retire early by 2025, incurring significant penalties totaling 9.2 billion New Taiwan Dollars. The Taiwanese Ministry of National Defense spokesperson criticized the Democratic Progressive Party for its policies, suggesting that public dissatisfaction is leading to a decline in military commitment. The situation reflects broader political tensions regarding Taiwan's independence and defense strategies.

Chinese and Russian navies conducted joint naval patrols near the Senkaku Islands on July 30, asserting that the area is international waters, contrary to Japan's claims of it being part of its Exclusive Economic Zone. The Chinese Defense Ministry criticized Japan's characterization of a reef as an island, stating it does not meet international definitions.

Chinese Defense Minister visited Thailand and Brunei on July 30, 2023, to enhance security trust and defense cooperation. During the visit, he met with the Prime Minister of Thailand and the Sultan of Brunei, discussing military relations and regional issues. A new '2+2' strategic dialogue mechanism was established to strengthen cooperation in various fields, including humanitarian assistance and military training.

China and Thailand will conduct the 'Eagle Strike-2026' joint air force training exercise in Thailand in August 2026. The Chinese Air Force will deploy multiple aircraft and ground air defense forces to participate in the exercise alongside the Royal Thai Air Force, focusing on joint air defense and humanitarian rescue operations. This marks the ninth joint training event between the two nations' air forces.

The People's Liberation Army Navy is set to send two ships, Qi Jiguang and Kunlunshan, to Surabaya, Indonesia, in early August following an invitation from the Indonesian Navy. This visit reflects the growing naval cooperation between China and Indonesia, which has included joint exercises and ship visits.

U.S. and Japanese forces conducted the JXR26 joint exercise from July 20 to 24, 2026, simulating a response to a major earthquake and tsunami in the Kinki region. The exercise emphasized humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, with U.S. forces supporting Japan's command. Key areas of focus included medical support, logistics, and effective communication under crisis conditions.

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The 076-type Sichuan ship of the People's Liberation Army Navy is in its final testing phase, focusing on integrating UAVs into amphibious operations. It is equipped with an electromagnetic catapult and arrestor system, enhancing its capabilities. The ship is expected to enter service in 2026, with significant implications for military operations in the South China Sea and Western Pacific.

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The J-15 carrier-based fighter jet experienced an engine failure during its test flight on November 23, 2012, while operating from the Liaoning aircraft carrier in China. The pilot successfully stopped the aircraft less than 5 meters from the edge of the deck, demonstrating exceptional control under pressure. This incident underscores the challenges faced by early test pilots in establishing naval aviation capabilities for China.

The People's Liberation Army Air Force transported new flight students to the Air Force Aviation University using multiple Yun-20B aircraft from July 31 to August 1. This operation involved six boarding points, including Shenyang and Nanjing, marking the fifth consecutive year of this initiative. The Yun-20B, featuring domestically produced engines, symbolizes the parallel development of military equipment and flight personnel training.

The Rocket Force is constructing underground strategic missile positions in China, involving 313 soldiers dedicated to this mission. They operate in secrecy, focusing on innovative construction techniques to ensure precision. This effort honors the memory of 313 fallen soldiers who contributed to national defense.