Analysis & Reports

On April 20, 2023, the Chinese Air Force deployed Y-20B aircraft to South Korea to repatriate the remains of fallen soldiers from the Korean War. Four J-20 aircraft will escort the Y-20B during this mission, which honors the 90th anniversary of the Long March and the 80th anniversary of the Northeast Old Aviation School. The Y-20B is designated 'Honor Return 50' and the J-20 is named 'Red Eagle'.

The U.S. submarine Charlotte sank the Iranian frigate Dena in the Indian Ocean on March 4 by firing two torpedoes. This event marks the first instance of a U.S. submarine sinking an enemy vessel with a torpedo since World War II. Adm. Daryl Caudle highlighted the Navy's quick adaptation to operational needs, emphasizing the importance of tailored forces in modern warfare.

Since February 28, 415 U.S. military personnel have been injured during operations against Iran. The injuries include 271 from the Army, 63 from the Navy, 19 from the Marine Corps, and 62 from the Air Force. The death toll stands at 13, with casualties occurring in Kuwait and Saudi Arabia, including deaths from a tanker crash.

Russian forces conducted airstrikes on Ukrainian defense industrial facilities and transportation infrastructure over the past 24 hours. In response, Ukrainian forces attacked a Russian oil refinery in Krasnodar Krai. The Ukrainian military reported 206 combat incidents in frontline areas during the same period.

Japan's government modified its arms export policy on April 21 to allow the export of lethal weapons, prompting widespread criticism and protests from various political parties and citizens. Opponents argue that this change undermines Japan's peace constitution and could lead to Japan becoming a nation that exports war. Political representatives are advocating for stricter reviews of arms exports to ensure accountability.

An ammunition explosion occurred at a Japan Ground Self-Defense Force training facility in Oita Prefecture on the morning of the 21st, resulting in the deaths of 3 personnel. The explosion was attributed to an abnormal detonation of a shell during tank firing exercises.

This morning, a ceremony was held in Shenyang for the return of the thirteenth batch of remains of Chinese People's Volunteer Army martyrs. Various representatives, including astronauts and Olympic medalists, participated in honoring the martyrs. Youth patriotic education activities are also planned in Dandong, involving students from different regions in commemorative events.

Southern Theater Command Navy conducted comprehensive training exercises in the South China Sea, involving multiple naval vessels. The fleet responded to simulated enemy threats, with radar systems detecting fast-moving targets. Main guns were used to successfully destroy surface targets, enhancing the combat capabilities and coordination of the participating vessels.

The U.S. Navy highlighted a new timeline for the F/A-XX program and growing interest in medium unmanned surface vessels during the first day of the Sea Air Space conference in National Harbor, Maryland.

The U.S. Air Force has decided to extend the service of three squadrons of A-10 Warthog aircraft, ensuring they remain operational through 2030. This move highlights the continued reliance on the A-10 in military operations.

Command and control in military operations will continue to rely on human involvement, even as robotic naval vessels are introduced in the Pacific region.

In April 2026, the People's Liberation Army underwent significant purges, impacting military command structures. Concurrently, the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force transited the Taiwan Strait, prompting a strong response from China, which released footage and issued warnings against external interference. Additionally, Chinese maritime survey activities were confirmed in Japan's exclusive economic zone, indicating ongoing military intentions in the region. Japan faces dual challenges from the energy crisis in the Holmuz Strait and rising military tensions in East Asia.

Tanaka TakashiTue Apr 21 2026Loading...

The British Royal Navy is struggling with its Queen Elizabeth-class aircraft carriers due to mechanical issues, a shortage of F-35B fighter jets, and declining personnel numbers. These challenges hinder the Navy's ability to fulfill its strategic role in NATO and respond to global threats. The situation reflects broader issues in military procurement and public support for defense initiatives.

The U.S. Air Force has extended the service life of the A-10 Thunderbolt II aircraft until 2030, delaying its original retirement plan from 2026. This decision aims to maintain operational capabilities while the defense industrial base enhances aircraft production. The A-10 has been actively used in operations concerning Iran, equipped with a 30mm cannon for combat.

In 1999, the HNLMS Walrus, a Dutch diesel-electric submarine, successfully sank the USS Theodore Roosevelt during a NATO exercise in the Atlantic Ocean. This incident highlighted the vulnerability of U.S. Navy aircraft carriers to stealthy attacks from older submarine technology. Despite the advanced capabilities of U.S. carriers, they remain susceptible to ambushes by diesel-electric submarines, which can exploit their quieter operations and strategic positioning.

Napoleon Bonaparte remarked on the motivation of soldiers during his exile, emphasizing their willingness to fight for recognition. This observation was made aboard HMS Bellerophon on July 15, 1815, after his defeat at Waterloo. The quote highlights the importance of military honors, such as the Legion of Honor, which he established to reward service and bravery.

A Russian Tu-22M3 bomber completed a planned flight over the Baltic Sea on October 20, lasting over 4 hours, escorted by Su-35 fighter jets. The Russian Aerospace Forces regularly conduct missions in neutral airspace over the Arctic, North Atlantic, Pacific, Baltic Sea, and Black Sea, adhering to international airspace regulations.

The U.S. Navy showcased the F-35C fighter at the Lakeland Airshow on March 19, 2026, highlighting its advanced capabilities. The aircraft features a fly-by-wire system, allowing for automated stability and control, and is designed for stealth operations with internal weapon storage. Pilots manage missions using a data-centric cockpit, emphasizing the transition from traditional piloting to systems management.

U.S. President Trump declared that the blockade on Iran will remain until a deal is reached. The U.S. military has enforced a blockade on ships at Iranian ports since April 13, effectively halting Iran's maritime trade. In response, Iran has asserted control over the Strait of Hormuz and is open to negotiations, with Pakistan mediating efforts to lift the blockade.

Iran submitted a detailed report to international organizations regarding the attack on the Minaab primary school, which occurred on February 28 and resulted in over 100 casualties. The Iranian Judiciary stated it will pursue the perpetrators of this war crime until they are brought to justice.