Analysis & Reports

Multiple aircraft from the Naval Aviation Force of the Eastern Theater Command conducted anti-submarine warfare training at an airport, deploying live depth charges. The exercise involved coordination with a maritime command group and included both day and night operations. During the training, a fire control system malfunction was reported, but the crew successfully resolved the issue and continued the mission.

The Yantai Maritime Safety Administration issued a navigation warning prohibiting entry into Laizhou Bay due to military activities scheduled from July 20 to 21.

On July 7, 2026, four Chinese Coast Guard vessels approached the Senkaku Islands, with two entering Japanese territorial waters and engaging with Japanese fishing boats. The Japan Coast Guard issued a demand for the Chinese vessels to leave, which they complied with by around 9:20 AM. This incident highlights the ongoing territorial tensions between Japan and China in the East China Sea.

Tanaka TakashiSun Jul 19 2026Loading...

Israeli airstrikes struck two communities in Gaza City on July 18, 2025, resulting in 8 fatalities. This incident is part of ongoing military operations in the region, with a total of 1144 deaths reported since the ceasefire agreement in October 2025.

The F-15EX Eagle II has proven its capability to carry 12 air-to-air missiles during tests conducted by the U.S. Air Force. The aircraft, revealed on April 7, 2022, at Eglin Air Force Base, is set to be procured in larger numbers, with plans for 267 units. It features 23 hardpoints for various munitions and is designed for roles including homeland defense and standoff strikes.

France's Air and Space Force will launch PEGASE 26 in September 2026, deploying four Rafale fighter jets and supporting 300 airmen across the Arctic, Indo-Pacific, and Middle East. The operation will last 38 days and involve A330 MRTT and A400M Atlas aircraft for logistics. This mission aims to demonstrate France's military capabilities and strengthen partnerships in these strategic regions.

On July 11, 2026, Japan Ground Self-Defense Force and Kentucky National Guard units conducted synchronized missile launches at a naval target off Kauai during RIMPAC 2026. The exercise involved 30,000 personnel from 30 nations, demonstrating the capability for joint operations. However, challenges remain regarding operational effectiveness in contested environments, particularly after initial missile salvos.

Marcus ChenSat Jul 18 2026Loading...

China's Type 094 nuclear submarine successfully launched an intercontinental ballistic missile on July 6, 2023, in the South China Sea. This test marks a significant advancement in China's naval nuclear deterrent capabilities, emphasizing the need for effective anti-submarine warfare to ensure operational success. The missile's trajectory towards the deep Pacific indicates a strategic shift in deterrence posture.

Li MinghuiSat Jul 18 2026Loading...

On June 27, 2026, the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force submarine sank the decommissioned USS Juneau during a sinking exercise in the Philippine Sea, over 200 nautical miles off Guam. This event was part of Valiant Shield 2026, involving multiple military forces and showcasing the capabilities of JMSDF submarines in joint operations.

Tanaka TakashiSat Jul 18 2026Loading...

China and Russia conducted a joint naval exercise from July 6-13, 2026, in Qingdao, Shandong, involving multiple naval vessels and submarines. Following the exercise, both navies organized a joint maritime patrol in the Pacific Ocean. The exercise included various operational drills such as reconnaissance and anti-submarine warfare.

The People's Liberation Army Navy conducted training exercises with J-15T aircraft on July 14, 2023, focusing on carrier operations and ground personnel coordination. The exercises aimed to enhance the operational capabilities of the Fujian aircraft carrier, which is expected to be fully operational by 2026. The training included the use of YJ-83K anti-ship missiles, emphasizing the importance of standardizing complex carrier operations.

Li MinghuiSat Jul 18 2026Loading...

The Army 953 Hospital and Army Medical University conducted a 23-day medical mission in Shigatse, Tibet, covering over 6000 kilometers to provide health services to soldiers. The team addressed various health issues, including insomnia and pulmonary hypertension, while also offering health education and emergency training. Psychological support was provided, and electronic health records were established for the soldiers.

The Naval Aviation Force of the Southern Theater Command conducted live-fire attack training, successfully firing multiple artillery shells at targets. This exercise took place during the summer season.

China announced a military training closure in the South China Sea from July 21 to July 24, restricting entry to practice military control. This action coincides with the anniversary of the 2016 arbitral ruling against China's maritime claims, highlighting Beijing's intent to assert its influence. The closure aims to test the responses of regional actors, including the Philippines and its allies, regarding maritime operations in contested waters.

Marcus ChenFri Jul 17 2026Loading...

HTMS Chakri Naruebet, the world's smallest aircraft carrier, has been utilized by the Royal Thai Navy as a floating command center and hospital during disaster relief operations, including recent flooding in southern Thailand. Commissioned in 1997, it has not operated fixed-wing aircraft since 2006 and is primarily docked at Sattahip. Despite its limited military capabilities, it has provided significant humanitarian assistance during crises.

The U.S. Air Force is retiring the F-15C Eagles, with the last units departing from Kadena Air Base in Japan in late 2024. The F-15C, known for its unmatched air-to-air combat record, will be replaced by the multirole F-15EX. This transition marks the end of an era for a fighter designed exclusively for air superiority.

The China Maritime Safety Administration issued a navigation warning prohibiting entry into parts of the South China Sea due to military training scheduled from July 21, 6:00 AM to July 24, 6:00 PM.

The Australian Army conducted its first live-fire training exercise using AH-64E Apache helicopters on Australian soil.

RIMPAC 2026 involved 38 countries and over 30,000 personnel testing logistics and advanced manufacturing capabilities in Hawaii. The U.S. Navy demonstrated the use of autonomous boats and 3D printers to address supply chain challenges. The exercise highlighted the importance of maintaining operational readiness despite long supply lines and equipment failures. Key technologies included deployable manufacturing cells and unmanned surface vessels for resupply operations.

Marcus ChenFri Jul 17 2026Loading...

The upgraded Y-9 anti-submarine aircraft participated in training exercises in the South China Sea on July 16, 2026, demonstrating enhanced capabilities with new radar and detection systems. The People's Liberation Army Navy emphasized complex operational conditions during the exercises, indicating a focus on continuous search and coordination in anti-submarine warfare.

Li MinghuiFri Jul 17 2026Loading...