Analysis & Reports

The new generation Yinchuan ship, hull number 175, was commissioned into the People's Navy on July 12, 2016, succeeding the first generation ship that served as a command vessel during a significant mission in 1980. The Yinchuan ship has successfully completed various major tasks, including escort missions and joint exercises in the South Pacific, showcasing its advanced capabilities and operational readiness.

The Wuzhishan ship of the South China Sea Navy Fleet conducted training exercises aimed at enhancing combat readiness and operational capabilities. Crew members have adapted their training to include rapid response to threats and electronic warfare scenarios. This shift reflects a broader change in mindset, emphasizing the ship's role in both transport and combat operations.

The 82nd Group Army's Model Company of Strong Crossing Wu River conducted reconnaissance training and combat drills at the Wu River, commemorating the 90th anniversary of the Red Army's Long March. The unit reflects on its historical significance and the spirit of 'fighting fiercely and advancing courageously' as they prepare for future operations. The training involved 17 soldiers using bamboo rafts, emphasizing the legacy of their predecessors' bravery during the original crossing in January 1935.

The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force, Republic of Korea Navy, and United States Navy conducted the joint military exercise 'Freedom Edge 26' from September 7-11, 2026, in the waters east and south of Jeju Island. Six surface combatants participated, with a focus on decentralized air defense and real-time data sharing. Notably, no U.S. aircraft carriers were present for the second consecutive year, highlighting a shift in operational strategy. The exercise follows North Korea's announcement of a new guided missile destroyer.

Tanaka TakashiTue Sep 15 2026Loading...

U.S. and South Korean officials are holding high-level security talks this week to discuss a potential South Korean military deployment to the Strait of Hormuz. The discussions include the deployment of a P-8 Poseidon aircraft and a naval logistics support vessel, involving about 150 personnel. The South Korean government has not made a final decision, as any deployment requires approval from the National Assembly.

China's armed forces will mobilize all available civilian resources for military purposes under the revised National Defense Mobilization Law, effective October 1, 2023. This change raises concerns for Taiwan and the Philippines, as the People's Liberation Army (PLA) prepares for potential conflict in the Taiwan Strait and South China Sea. Analysts warn that this legal framework enhances China's military readiness and could lead to increased tensions in the region.

USS San Diego (LPD 22) departed Naval Base Guam on September 12, 2026, after completing routine operations in the U.S. 7th Fleet area. The amphibious transport dock is designed to transport approximately 700 Marines and is forward-deployed to Sasebo, Japan, enhancing U.S. military readiness in the Indo-Pacific region. The ship's movements are part of standard Navy operations, with Guam serving as a key logistics hub.

China, Russia, and Mongolia conducted a joint military exercise named 'Border Cooperation-2026' near Manzhouli, Inner Mongolia, on September 2-3, 2023. The exercise focused on preventing reconnaissance and sabotage activities at the border, involving live drills on joint planning, searching, and capturing operations. This marks the second iteration of such exercises, reflecting a deepening military collaboration among the three countries.

China and Singapore conducted the 'Maritime Cooperation-2026' joint naval exercise in Zhanjiang, Guangdong from September 3 to 9, 2023. The exercise involved the Chinese missile frigate Dali and the Singaporean frigate Steadfast, featuring live-fire drills, maritime resupply, and joint search and rescue operations. This event marks the fifth joint exercise between the two nations' navies, aimed at enhancing cooperation and regional stability.

The 'Freedom Edge 2026' joint naval exercise commenced on September 7, 2026, near Jeju Island, South Korea, involving six Aegis-equipped ships from Japan, South Korea, and the U.S. Approximately 560 personnel participated, showcasing air defense capabilities without an aircraft carrier for the second year. The exercise's relevance was underscored by North Korea's recent deployment of a destroyer, emphasizing the need for integrated missile defense.

Tanaka TakashiMon Sep 14 2026Loading...

China conducted a series of military activities in June 2026, including joint bomber patrols with Russia over the Sea of Japan and East China Sea, naval exercises near Qingdao, and coast guard operations east of Taiwan. A ballistic missile test demonstrated a range of 7,300 kilometers, indicating China's expanding military reach. These actions suggest a shift towards a more permanent military presence in the Western Pacific, challenging regional security dynamics.

Marcus ChenSun Sep 13 2026Loading...

The Eastern Theater Command Air Force conducted joint air-ground exercises involving multiple military branches, focusing on enhancing combined strike capabilities. The exercises featured early warning aircraft and various fighter jets, with Red forces executing a low-altitude surprise attack on Blue ground targets. The operation included successful aerial refueling and tactical maneuvers under challenging conditions.

On September 7, 2026, Japan, the U.S., and South Korea launched the 'Freedom Edge 2026' joint military exercise near Jeju Island, involving six destroyers and approximately 2,300 personnel. The exercise focuses on air defense, missile defense, maritime interdiction, and cyber operations. Coinciding with the exercise, North Korea unveiled a new destroyer capable of carrying nuclear missiles, raising concerns about regional security dynamics. The absence of U.S. aircraft carriers marks a notable shift in military strategy.

Tanaka TakashiSun Sep 13 2026Loading...

U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptors are deployed from Kadena Air Base in Japan to maintain air power and readiness in the Pacific region between August and September 2023. This deployment serves as a deterrent amid increasing Chinese military activity around Taiwan. The F-22's supercruise capability enables it to sustain speeds above Mach 1.5 without using afterburners, enhancing operational efficiency.

On August 22, the Chinese Navy's 054A frigate conducted naval operations in the East China Sea, including combat training and emergency response. This deployment enhances China's operational capabilities and poses challenges for Japan's Self-Defense Forces in maintaining anti-submarine warfare effectiveness. The 054A frigate, with a displacement of approximately 4,000 tons, is equipped for multi-role operations, including anti-air and anti-ship missions.

Tanaka TakashiSat Sep 12 2026Loading...

Japan, the U.S., and South Korea conducted the Freedom Edge 2026 missile defense exercise at Yokota Air Base from September 7-11, 2026. The exercise involved approximately 2,300 personnel and 6 destroyers, focusing on integrating sensor data for air defense. Concurrently, North Korea commissioned a new destroyer, the Kang Gon, highlighting regional military developments.

Tanaka TakashiFri Sep 11 2026Loading...

The HSwMS Gotland, a Swedish Gotland-Class Diesel Submarine, conducted training exercises with the U.S. Navy, achieving a simulated kill against the USS Ronald Reagan in December 2005. The U.S. Navy had rented the submarine for training purposes, enhancing its capabilities against conventional submarines. The arrangement began in 2004, with the Gotland arriving at Naval Air Station North Island in June 2005, allowing for extensive training against U.S. naval forces.

Two Royal Australian Air Force F-35A Lightning II stealth fighters landed at Ohakea, New Zealand, on September 8, 2025, marking their first visit. They conducted training missions with New Zealand forces, including mock bombing runs and interceptions, before departing on September 10. This event is significant as New Zealand has not operated fast jet combat aircraft since 2001, focusing instead on maritime patrol and transport operations.

The U.S., Japan, and South Korea conducted the Freedom Edge 2026 military exercise in the East China Sea starting September 7, 2026, involving approximately 2,300 personnel and 6 destroyers. The exercise focused on air and missile defense training, emphasizing real-time information sharing among the participating nations. This joint operation follows North Korea's announcement of a new nuclear-capable warship, complicating regional security dynamics.

Tanaka TakashiWed Sep 09 2026Loading...

A 054A-class frigate of the People's Liberation Army Navy completed training in the Eastern Theater Command on August 22, 2026, focusing on realistic combat scenarios and emergency response. This frigate enhances the Navy's capabilities in anti-submarine warfare and escort missions, filling operational gaps between smaller corvettes and larger destroyers. The integration of such vessels is crucial for maintaining a robust naval presence in the region.

Li MinghuiWed Sep 09 2026Loading...