Analysis & Reports

Taiwan's Army conducted the 2026 Shen Gong live-fire exercise, focusing on the operational testing of U.S.-supplied FIM-92 Stinger missiles. The exercise involved multiple launch platforms and aimed to enhance Taiwan's air defense capabilities against potential threats from China. Soldiers engaged aerial targets using live missiles under simulated combat conditions, demonstrating Taiwan's commitment to strengthening its layered air defense system.

China's People's Liberation Army Navy test fired a JL-2 submarine-launched ballistic missile from the South China Sea on July 6, 2026, which crossed over Luzon before landing in the South Pacific. This launch demonstrates China's capability to use the waters around the first island chain as an operational firing lane, raising concerns among regional allies about undersea surveillance and missile activity in politically sensitive areas.

Marcus ChenFri Jul 10 2026Loading...

Thousands of troops from the Southern Theater Command conducted rescue and disaster relief operations in Guangxi from July 9 to 10, 2023. They cleared roads, provided medical assistance, and supported local communities in recovering from the impact of Typhoon Misak. Over 5600 militia members also participated in flood relief efforts across multiple cities, ensuring the safety and recovery of affected populations.

U.S. Marines successfully test-fired the Medium-Range Intercept Capability (MRIC) system on June 30, 2026, at Camp Blaz, Guam, intercepting an aerial target during a live-fire test. This new air defense system, which utilizes SkyHunter missiles, enhances the Marines' ability to defend against complex aerial threats autonomously. The test was part of Exercise Valiant Shield 2026, aimed at improving joint military readiness in the Pacific.

The People's Liberation Army Navy conducted a test launch of a submarine-launched missile in the Pacific Ocean on July 6, 2023, at 12:01 PM. The missile reportedly traveled approximately 7000 kilometers, landing near Nauru and Tuvalu. This marks the first known test of such a missile by China since 1982, demonstrating advancements in its nuclear capabilities. The launch was monitored by Taiwan's radar systems and is part of routine military training, although it raises concerns regarding regional security and international diplomatic implications.

Li MinghuiFri Jul 10 2026Loading...

An F-15EX Eagle II landed at Kadena Air Base on June 29, 2026, as part of preparations for its deployment. The U.S. Air Force's 67th Fighter Squadron will operate the aircraft, which is set to replace older F-15C/D models. This deployment follows the Valiant Shield 26 exercise and aims to enhance air defense and strike capabilities in the region.

Tanaka TakashiFri Jul 10 2026Loading...

The Chinese Navy's 83rd fleet concluded a four-day friendly visit to Vietnam on July 9, departing from Lotus Port in Ho Chi Minh City. A farewell ceremony was held, attended by representatives from the Chinese consulate and the Vietnamese Navy. Following the visit, the fleet conducted joint training exercises with the Vietnamese Navy in nearby waters, highlighting the cooperation between the two nations' naval forces.

A Chinese Navy submarine launched a submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM) on July 6, 2023, which traveled approximately 7,300 kilometers into the Pacific Ocean. The missile reportedly landed near a nuclear-free zone in the South Pacific, raising concerns among Japan and other nations. This test demonstrates China's advancing nuclear deterrence capabilities and highlights the challenges of detecting and tracking such launches before they occur.

Tanaka TakashiFri Jul 10 2026Loading...

On July 1, 2026, the U.S. Air Force conducted a military exercise over the Philippine Sea, featuring an F-15EX fighter flying alongside an Australian-built MQ-28 Ghost Bat drone. This marked the first time the Air Force published an image of a collaborative combat aircraft with a crewed fighter. The MQ-28 has demonstrated combat capabilities, including an autonomous missile launch that resulted in an air-to-air kill.

China's People's Liberation Army Navy conducted live-fire drills and operations around Australia, showcasing its capabilities with over 90 modern destroyers and frigates. The Type 055 cruiser led a task group that operated 5,000 miles from home, demonstrating a sophisticated naval architecture. The fleet's rapid growth and modernization have positioned it as a significant force in the Pacific, with capabilities that challenge Western naval standards.

The demand for HIMARS has surged due to its successful deployment in Ukraine, prompting Lockheed Martin to double production to 96 launchers in 2024. Countries like Poland, Estonia, and Canada have placed significant orders, while HIMARS has also been utilized in operations against Iran. Despite its effectiveness, challenges remain with ammunition supply, impacting operational capabilities.

The U.S. Air Force has equipped the B-2 Spirit stealth bomber to carry 16 Long-Range Antiship Missiles (LRASMs) for operations in the Taiwan Strait. This development enhances the bomber's capability for maritime access-denial missions, crucial for countering Chinese naval strategies. The LRASM is designed to strike hostile shipping, potentially altering the balance of power in the region.

The Chinese Navy's 83rd Fleet concluded a four-day friendly visit to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, on July 9, and resumed its training mission at sea. During the visit, the fleet conducted joint naval exercises with the Vietnamese Navy and participated in cultural exchanges, including a football match. The fleet has been on a training mission since June 15, navigating through several seas.

The Southern Theater Command Army conducted rescue operations in Guigang, Guangxi, on July 9, evacuating over 10,000 trapped students and teachers due to severe flooding caused by Typhoon 'Maysak'. Military personnel utilized speedboats to deliver supplies and facilitate the orderly evacuation to safe locations, with local volunteers assisting in the efforts. All individuals were successfully relocated as the military transitioned to further flood response operations.

Chinese and Russian naval forces commenced the 'Maritime Joint-2026' exercise on July 9, 2026, at 6 AM, departing from a military port in Qingdao. The exercises will take place in the nearby maritime area and include joint reconnaissance, air defense, anti-ship strikes, and joint rescue operations.

On July 7, the Chinese People's Liberation Army and armed police arrived in Guigang, Guangxi, to assist approximately 4000 students and teachers trapped by severe flooding caused by Typhoon Mekkhala. Local residents expressed their gratitude, stating that the presence of the military provided a sense of safety.

The People's Liberation Army and Armed Police Force deployed over 2400 personnel, more than 70 boats, and over 260 vehicles and engineering equipment for disaster relief operations in Guangxi, Hubei, and Gansu on July 9. This response was initiated due to severe weather conditions that caused dam failures and landslides. Additionally, over 5500 militia members are assisting in local efforts to protect civilian lives and property.

Japan is accelerating the militarization of space, recently renaming its Air Self-Defense Force to Aerospace Self-Defense Force and forming a Space Operations Group. This shift includes a tenfold increase in military investment in space over five years and a thirtyfold expansion of military capabilities, raising concerns about regional security and Japan's military ambitions.

On July 9, a naval fleet consisting of missile destroyer Nanning and missile frigate Hengyang conducted open visits in Hong Kong, attracting over 30,000 participants. The event celebrated the 29th anniversary of Hong Kong's return to China, featuring military experiences and cultural exchanges. Attendees expressed a heightened sense of national belonging and security due to the presence of the naval forces.

The Chinese Air Force is enhancing its air and space defense capabilities as of July 9, focusing on modernization and strategic transformation. This includes the development of new aircraft such as the Y-20 and improvements in strategic strike and defense systems. The Air Force aims to solidify its role as a key defender of national sovereignty and regional stability.