Analysis & Reports

The U.S. Marine Corps has decided to retain the M27 Infantry Automatic Rifle instead of adopting the Army's M7 Next Generation Squad Weapon, citing reliability and doctrinal requirements. This decision reflects the Marine Corps' commitment to its unique operational needs and interoperability with coalition partners. The M7, developed by SIG Sauer, has faced scrutiny regarding its reliability and weight, leading to the Marine Corps' preference for the M27.

The Pentagon released its 2026 National Defense Strategy, emphasizing deterrence against China and reallocating resources for military engagement in the Indo-Pacific. The strategy allocates an additional $12.6 billion to counter Chinese military build-up, while Taiwan's absence from priority areas raises concerns. Regional allies express varied responses, reflecting their own security concerns and interpretations of U.S. commitments.

Marcus ChenSun Mar 01 2026Loading...

Russia sold 24 advanced Su-35 fighters to China in 2019, completing a deal worth $2.5 billion that was agreed upon in 2015. This sale included spare engines and equipment, marking China as the first foreign buyer of the Su-35. The transaction was influenced by international sanctions on Russia following its annexation of Crimea.

Hiroo Onoda, a lieutenant in the Imperial Japanese Army, survived on Lubang Island from 1944 until March 1974, believing World War II was still ongoing. He and three other soldiers ignored attempts to inform them of the war's end, surviving on coconuts and rice while engaging in guerrilla actions. Onoda finally surrendered when his former commander came to relieve him of duty.

Australia faces a critical capability gap in its submarine force as U.S. and British shipyards struggle to meet demand for new submarines. Discussions are ongoing about leasing Los Angeles-class submarines from the U.S. or revisiting contracts with French manufacturers to enhance Australia's naval capabilities against China's expanding fleet. The AUKUS pact is currently failing to deliver the necessary submarines for Australia, which needs to act quickly to bolster its defense.

The 2026 National Defense Strategy outlines a shift in U.S. military priorities towards deterrence by denial in the Indo-Pacific, emphasizing homeland defense while calling for increased defense spending from allies. Notably, Taiwan is not explicitly mentioned, raising concerns about U.S. commitment. The strategy aims to enhance U.S. military presence and capabilities in the region to counter China's influence.

Marcus ChenSun Mar 01 2026Loading...

The People's Liberation Army officially began issuing the Reserve Personnel Certificate on March 1, 2023, which serves as valid identification for reserve personnel. This certificate replaces the previous officer certificate and reflects the dual identity of reserve personnel as both civilians and military members. Legislation has been enacted to protect their rights, and the selection process includes specific criteria for eligibility.

Since 2022, the People's Liberation Army (PLA) has undergone a significant purge, resulting in the removal of 101 senior military officers, including high-ranking generals. This unprecedented action has raised serious concerns about the PLA's current readiness and future operational capabilities. The Southern Theater Command has been particularly affected, with its leadership nearly entirely replaced. The report highlights a drastic shift in command structure and political loyalty within the military.

Li MinghuiSun Mar 01 2026Loading...

China conducted live-fire military exercises in the Yellow Sea and engaged in provocative actions near the Miyako Strait from November 2025 to March 2026. Diplomatic tensions escalated between China and Japan following statements from Japanese officials regarding Taiwan. The U.S. and Japan strengthened their alliance through strategic dialogues addressing regional security concerns.

Tanaka TakashiSun Mar 01 2026Loading...

China has established a robust Anti-Access/Area-Denial (A2/AD) strategy that protects its aircraft carrier fleet and deters U.S. Navy operations in the Indo-Pacific. This strategy utilizes a dense inventory of Anti-Ship Ballistic Missiles (ASBMs) and hypersonic missiles, forcing U.S. carriers to operate from a distance. The geographical advantages and advanced missile systems give China a significant edge in any potential maritime conflict.

The U.S. announced a $12.6 billion investment in surveillance and deterrence operations in the Indo-Pacific on February 24, 2026, amid growing concerns over China's military expansion. This includes the launch of Cobra Gold 2026, a multilateral military exercise in Thailand involving 8,000 personnel from 30 nations. The AUKUS partnership is also progressing with submarine cooperation, enhancing regional security efforts.

Marcus ChenSat Feb 28 2026Loading...

China's Ministry of National Defense accused the United States of undermining nuclear stability in a statement issued on February 28. The ministry responded to U.S. allegations of Chinese nuclear testing, asserting that China maintains a defensive nuclear posture and complies with international commitments. The statement criticized U.S. nuclear policy and modernization efforts, framing the exchange as part of broader disagreements over nuclear transparency and arms control compliance.

U.S. and Israeli forces launched strikes on Iran, prompting emergency meetings among European leaders on Saturday. French President Macron called for a U.N. Security Council meeting, while leaders from Germany and the U.K. discussed the escalating situation. The strikes have raised fears of a broader conflict, with various international leaders condemning the actions and calling for restraint and negotiations regarding Iran's nuclear program.

The U.S. is implementing a defense strategy that prioritizes homeland security and the Indo-Pacific, recognizing China as the primary threat. Key initiatives include enhancing military capabilities in the Philippines and Taiwan, alongside a substantial arms package for Taiwan. The strategy reflects a shift in focus while maintaining a strong deterrent posture against China.

Marcus ChenSat Feb 28 2026Loading...

On February 27, 2024, the Chinese government announced the dismissal of nine senior military officers from the People's Liberation Army (PLA) as part of an anti-corruption campaign. This follows the investigation of Zhang Youxia, the Vice Chairman of the Central Military Commission, and marks a significant shift in military leadership. The total number of military representatives in the National People's Congress has decreased from 252 to 243, indicating ongoing political purges within the military.

Li MinghuiSat Feb 28 2026Loading...

On February 28, a Chinese military spokesperson stated that China's military actions are legitimate and aimed at protecting national sovereignty in response to Japan's claims of increased military threats. The spokesperson criticized Japan's historical militarism and urged the international community to resist Japan's new militaristic tendencies, emphasizing the need to uphold post-World War II international order.

On February 28, the Chinese Defense Ministry criticized U.S. accusations regarding China's alleged nuclear testing in 2020. The spokesperson emphasized China's commitment to a no-first-use nuclear policy and accused the U.S. of undermining international nuclear stability with its nuclear arsenal and policies. China called on the U.S. to comply with the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty.

On February 28, the Taiwanese government announced plans to accelerate military procurement from the U.S. to enhance its asymmetric warfare capabilities. The spokesperson criticized this approach as wasteful and harmful to Taiwan's security, warning against reliance on foreign support for independence and highlighting the risks of separatism and foreign interference.

On February 28, the Chinese Armed Forces stated their commitment to maintaining sovereignty in the South China Sea amid joint patrols by the U.S., Philippines, Japan, and Australia near Huangyan Island. The spokesperson criticized these foreign military activities as provocations that threaten regional peace. China maintains that it will not allow any disruptive schemes in the South China Sea and will respond firmly to any infringements.

Japan and South Korea agreed to resume joint maritime search and rescue training on January 30, 2026, in Yokosuka, marking a significant shift in defense cooperation after a 9-year hiatus. The agreement includes collaboration on advanced defense technologies such as AI and unmanned systems, reflecting a response to regional security challenges posed by North Korea and China. Both nations' defense ministers emphasized the importance of ongoing communication and cooperation to address mutual security concerns.

Tanaka TakashiSat Feb 28 2026Loading...