Analysis & Reports

China's aircraft carriers, including Liaoning, Shandong, and the upcoming Fujian, are actively engaged in extensive training and operational exercises in the Western Pacific from 2023 to 2025. Shandong conducted significant drills in April and September 2023, while Fujian is set to enter service in November 2025, showcasing advanced capabilities with electromagnetic catapults. The dual-carrier exercises aim to improve the combat readiness of the People's Liberation Army Navy.

Valiant Shield 26 commenced on June 22, 2026, involving the U.S. Army and Japan Self-Defense Forces in multi-domain interoperability training. The exercise, running until July 1, includes the deployment of Typhon missile systems and HIMARS at Kano Air Base for integrated anti-ship warfare. The focus is on maintaining operational readiness and deterrence in the Western Pacific, with training extending from Kagoshima to Hawaii and Guam.

Tanaka TakashiTue Jun 23 2026Loading...

The U.S. Army deployed Typhon and HIMARS systems to Kano, Japan, for the 'Valiant Shield 2026' exercise from June 22 to July 1, 2026. This deployment focuses on the political management of mid-range firepower without live-fire exercises. The Typhon system, capable of launching SM-6 and Tomahawk missiles, aims to enhance operational readiness in the region.

Tanaka TakashiSun Jun 21 2026Loading...

U.S. Navy aircraft carriers are increasingly vulnerable in the Western Pacific due to China's advanced anti-ship missile systems, which require carriers to operate within dangerous ranges. The F/A-XX program, intended to enhance carrier air wing capabilities, is significantly delayed, while China's missile capabilities continue to improve. This situation raises concerns about the effectiveness of supercarriers in future conflicts against a well-equipped adversary.

AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE signed contracts for nine L-39 Skyfox aircraft, marking its first entry into Africa and the Americas. The Angolan Air Force will receive up to four aircraft, while a North American customer will help market the aircraft. AERO's production is booked until 2027, with total orders exceeding 200 million euros.

The 71st Group Army conducted live-fire training exercises in an unfamiliar region, focusing on air defense operations. Multiple units coordinated to intercept simulated enemy aircraft, successfully engaging and destroying targets during both day and night operations. This exercise aimed to enhance the combat readiness and capabilities of the air defense units.

The U.S. Department of Defense is emphasizing rapid innovation in military technology, particularly in drone production and weapon systems. Recent developments include Marines field-producing shaped charges from local materials in the Indo-Pacific, demonstrating significant advancements in military capabilities. The Pentagon has also introduced a 'patent holiday' to facilitate access to government-held technological patents, aiming to enhance defense innovation.

Allen-Vanguard secured over $3 million in contracts for its Electronic Countermeasure systems to enhance force protection and C-IED capabilities in Africa. The contracts include comprehensive training and support for users and technicians. These systems aim to improve protection against Radio Controlled Improvised Explosive Devices and Uncrewed Air Systems threats.

On June 10, 2023, U.S. Central Command conducted airstrikes on 20 Iranian targets following the downing of an Apache helicopter. In retaliation, Iran targeted 21 U.S. military bases in the Middle East, including facilities in Bahrain and Jordan. The situation remains dynamic, with both sides prepared for further escalation.

The Sudanese Armed Forces used a Turkish-made HİSAR-A surface-to-air missile to repel a drone attack in Khartoum. Photographic evidence of missile debris was published by OSINT analyst Rich Tedd, confirming the missile's deployment. This development highlights the SAF's efforts to counter the RSF's drone warfare capabilities amid an ongoing conflict that has displaced millions.

A fire on the USS Ford aircraft carrier lasted over 30 hours in March 2023, destroying approximately 600 sailors' sleeping quarters and damaging critical systems. The fire compromised the ship's structural integrity and fire suppression capabilities, leading to concerns about the U.S. Navy's readiness. The USS Ford is expected to undergo repairs for at least one year, impacting the Navy's operational capacity.

The U.S. Navy plans to deploy 30 medium unmanned surface vessels in the Indo-Pacific by 2030, with seven companies entering at-sea demonstrations for the Medium Unmanned Surface Vessel Family of Systems. Saronic's Marauder, a 180-foot autonomous vessel, is highlighted for its range and payload capabilities. The Navy's acquisition strategy is evolving to include commercial solutions, addressing the need for rapid deployment in a contested maritime environment.

Marcus ChenThu Jun 04 2026Loading...

Blighter secured a contract on June 4, 2026, to supply its A800 Mk 2 4D multi-mode radars to an Eastern European Army for border protection against ground incursions and low-flying drones. The radars will be deployed at fixed locations and integrated with the Army's command-and-control systems.

The U.S. Navy selected seven companies to compete for the Medium Unmanned Surface Vessel (MUSV) contract, with at-sea testing set to begin next month and conclude by October 2023. This initiative aims to expand the Navy's unmanned vessel fleet from four to thirty by 2030 in the Indo-Pacific region. The MUSVs must meet specific operational criteria, including autonomous operation and long-range travel capabilities.

The United States plans to redeploy nuclear forces to the Western Pacific to enhance deterrence against North Korea and China. This includes potential nuclear-sharing arrangements with South Korea and the gradual introduction of nuclear capabilities in Japan. The proposed military buildup aims to reassure U.S. allies and counterbalance China's growing military strength.

U.S. Special Operations Command is seeking advanced technology for combat divers to enhance stealth capabilities against enemy detection systems. The solicitation, published on May 29, 2023, addresses the need for improved underwater propulsion, navigation, and communication systems. This initiative responds to the growing threat posed by adversaries like China, Russia, and Iran, who are enhancing their underwater surveillance capabilities. Proposals will be accepted until June 2, 2026.

Hezbollah launched numerous rockets at northern Israel on May 30, 2023, with some intercepted by air defense systems. One rocket exploded in the town of Shimon, damaging buildings but causing no injuries. The Israeli military is preparing for potential further attacks from Lebanon as operations expand into southern regions.

L3Harris was awarded a $48.5 million contract to produce proximity fuzes for the Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS) to enhance its effectiveness against drones. The contract, which could total $98.4 million, includes work through September 2028 and involves multiple branches of the U.S. military. Testing at Yuma Proving Ground confirmed the fuze's effectiveness against larger unmanned aerial vehicles.

The U.S. Army deployed Typhon and HIMARS systems to Kano for training exercises from June to October 2026, as part of Valiant Shield 2026 and Resolute Dragon 26. This deployment enhances the operational readiness of U.S. forces and Japanese Self-Defense Forces in the southwestern region, integrating various military capabilities for deterrence. The Typhon system provides mid-range missile capabilities, while HIMARS training focused on mobile firing tactics.

Tanaka TakashiSat May 30 2026Loading...

Lockheed Martin was awarded a $180 million contract to provide maintenance and support for HIMARS and MLRS systems to foreign military customers. This contract, announced on May 28, 2023, will run through May 30, 2031, and aims to ensure operational readiness for countries including Ukraine, Poland, and Australia. The HIMARS system has significantly impacted modern warfare, particularly in Ukraine, leading to increased global demand for the artillery system.