Analysis & Reports

The USS Cincinnati (LCS-20) docked at Ream Naval Base in Cambodia on January 24, 2024, marking the first U.S. visit since Chinese expansions at the facility. The ship was positioned approximately 150 meters from a Chinese warship, highlighting the base's openness to all nations. This visit is part of a broader effort to enhance U.S.-Cambodian relations and counterbalance Chinese influence in the region.

The U.S. Navy faces a critical decision regarding the USS Nimitz (CVN-68) as it approaches the end of its service life. On April 18, 2025, the carrier arrived in Guam, highlighting its ongoing role in U.S. naval operations. The Navy must choose between a costly life-extension overhaul or retiring the vessel, amid high demands for carrier presence and slower-than-expected Ford-class replacements.

The China Coast Guard released a promotional video titled 'Law Enforcement at Sea' to commemorate the fifth anniversary of the Coast Guard Law. The video highlights the agency's commitment to maritime law enforcement and safeguarding national sovereignty. This initiative aims to enhance public awareness and support for the Coast Guard's operations.

Russia sold military equipment and technology to China from the 1990s to early 2000s, significantly aiding China's military modernization. Key sales included fighter aircraft like the Su-27 and Su-30, as well as naval assets such as Kilo-class submarines. This relationship, initially beneficial for both nations, has become strategically awkward as China has increasingly developed its own military capabilities.

The Southern Theater Command celebrated its achievements and readiness for national defense from 2016 to 2026. The report emphasizes the commitment to safeguarding the southern border of China and maintaining national security. It showcases the dedication and efforts of the command over the past decade.

China's defense minister urged Russia to enhance military coordination during a recent video call, emphasizing the need for strategic ties. This call follows renewed peace talks between Russia and Ukraine, highlighting China's role in supporting Russia's military efforts. U.S. officials claim that China provides a significant portion of the components necessary for Russia's missile and drone systems, further complicating the geopolitical landscape.

In 2026, tensions are expected to escalate in multiple regions, including Greenland, Ukraine, Taiwan, Iran, and India-Pakistan. U.S. military readiness is under scrutiny as President Trump has threatened action over Greenland, while Ukraine faces ongoing conflict with Russia. China may see an opportunity to act against Taiwan, and Iran's internal crisis could provoke external military responses. The rivalry between India and Pakistan remains dangerous, with both nations emboldened after recent clashes.

The U.S. Air Force is considering transferring 19 B-2 Spirit stealth bombers to Australia due to challenges in delivering Virginia-class submarines. This transfer would provide Australia with a long-range strike capability, filling a gap since the retirement of the F-111. The B-2's operational lifespan could extend into the 2040s, making it a viable option for enhancing Australia's military readiness against regional threats.

A Chinese defense spokesperson warned against the resurgence of Japanese militarism, stating that Japan is expanding its military capabilities and violating international obligations. China pledged to collaborate with peace-loving nations to contain this resurgence, emphasizing the threat it poses to regional and global stability.

Li MinghuiFri Jan 30 2026Loading...

On January 29, the Ministry of National Defense of China addressed concerns regarding Japan's potential actions related to the Diaoyu Islands, asserting that these islands are China's inherent territory. The ministry criticized Japan's military expansion and development of offensive weapons, warning that such actions threaten regional peace and stability. China pledged to take effective measures to defend its territorial sovereignty.

The Philippines announced military exercises in the South China Sea from January 21 to March 31, 2026, covering the area around Huangyan Island. In response, China’s Defense Ministry expressed strong opposition, asserting that Huangyan Island is Chinese territory and has lodged a formal protest with the Philippines. This development is likely to escalate maritime tensions in the region.

The 1st Army Area Command of Thailand announced the postponement of a memorandum signing with Cambodia regarding regional issues on January 29. The decision followed discussions held at the Poipet border crossing between the 1st Army Area Command and the 5th Army Area Command of Cambodia. Further negotiations are required before the memorandum can be finalized, with both sides committed to maintaining border peace and stability.

Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense criticized the DPP government for manipulating public opinion regarding cognitive warfare tactics from mainland China during a press conference on January 29. The ministry accused the DPP of attempting to sever cultural ties with the mainland and using cognitive warfare to distract from its political failures, which is believed to increase public resentment in Taiwan.

The Ministry of National Defense of China responded to military animation videos from Swedish, American, British, and Japanese companies that claimed to depict the sinking of Chinese naval vessels. The spokesperson noted that the Swedish military company has removed the videos and criticized the claims as self-indulgent, stating, 'You wish!'

On January 29, the Ministry of National Defense of China expressed concerns over Japan's military expansion, including the development of long-range missiles and offensive weapons. The Chinese defense spokesperson criticized Japan's actions as a threat to regional stability and emphasized the need to prevent the resurgence of militarism. This statement reflects heightened vigilance among regional nations regarding Japan's military ambitions.

On January 29, the Ministry of National Defense of China commented on the U.S. defense strategy, noting its omission of Taiwan, which signals a strategic withdrawal. The ministry emphasized that Taiwan is a domestic issue and criticized the Democratic Progressive Party's reliance on foreign support as self-deceptive.

On January 29, the Ministry of National Defense of China held a press conference where spokesperson Jiang Bin commented on the U.S. 2026 Defense Strategy. He rejected any attempts to contain China and emphasized the need for mutual respect and peaceful coexistence. Jiang urged the U.S. to stop depicting China as a military threat and to foster stable military relations.

On January 29, 2023, Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense held a press conference addressing the rejection of a defense budget proposal by the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP). The DPP's proposal for 1.25 trillion NTD was voted down, with accusations of corruption and mismanagement of public funds directed at the party. The spokesperson warned that such actions could jeopardize Taiwan's security and accelerate the risks of conflict.

The Chinese Ministry of National Defense addressed animated videos from military-industrial companies in Sweden, the UK, the US, and Japan that falsely depict the sinking of Chinese naval vessels. The spokesperson noted that the Swedish company has removed the video and criticized the actions as self-indulgent, urging other involved parties to take appropriate actions.

China is implementing a national total war strategy that mobilizes civilian and military resources to counter the United States, particularly focusing on Taiwan. The People's Liberation Army (PLA) is preparing for future conflicts by integrating high-tech systems and civilian assets, with a potential move on Taiwan anticipated around 2027. The strategy emphasizes the importance of technology, infrastructure resilience, and cyber capabilities to disrupt U.S. military operations.